Super Typhoon Bavi Threatens Guam and Northern Mariana Islands

A satellite image from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shows Typhoon Bavi approaching east of the U.S. Pacific island territory of Guam on Friday, July 3, 2026. Residents of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands are preparing for the arrival of Super Typhoon Bavi, which is forecasted to cause severe damage.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued typhoon warnings for the islands of Guam, Rota, Tinian, and Saipan, the capital of the Northern Mariana Islands. Local NWS meteorologist Landon Aydlett reported from central Guam around 1:30 a.m. on Monday local time, indicating deteriorating weather conditions, including torrential rain and increasing winds.

“This is a powerhouse super typhoon and this is going to be a very grim outlook for any island that takes a direct hit and that still looks like it could be the island of Rota,” shared Aydlett, who had been monitoring the typhoon actively.

The super typhoon was moving north with maximum sustained winds of 165 miles per hour on Sunday, according to Guam’s Joint Information Center. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) predicts Bavi’s winds could strengthen to 180 miles per hour, classifying it as a major category five storm. Structural damage, fallen trees, and power outages are anticipated. The JTWC classifies tropical cyclones with sustained winds of 150 miles per hour or greater as super typhoons.

Guam Governor Lou Leon Guerrero elevated the island’s emergency readiness status on Sunday. “We want everyone to be prepared,” Guerrero stated at a press briefing. “Stay safe in your homes, avoid traveling and entering the waters.”

Government officials expect the super typhoon to reach its closest point to Guam on Monday morning local time, delivering the most severe impacts. Emergency shelters, nearing capacity, have been opened as residents, particularly those in low-lying areas or living in wood and tin structures, sought refuge.

Aydlett expressed concern for communities recovering from Typhoon Sinlaku, which struck the region in April. “We have many vulnerable communities across northern Guam. Many still suffer from the effects of Sinlaku, and shelters are reaching capacity,” he reported.

Power outages and flight cancellations have already affected Guam, with operations at the Port Authority suspended. Flash flood warnings are in place across Rota, Saipan, Tinian, and Guam, including Dededo, the most populous village. Numerous schools and hospitals are at risk of being affected, as advised by the National Weather Service.

“People need to hunker down wherever they are because it’s just too dangerous to go out at this point,” Aydlett urged. “We aim for zero fatalities. It’s going to be a challenging night and day.” Official advisories recommend only essential personnel access Andersen Air Force Base.

Additional reporting by Isla Public Media’s News Director Dana Williams.