Damaging winds possible through Thursday
The National Weather Service in Guam warns that damaging winds are possible for the Marianas through Thursday as a result of an approaching synoptic low-pressure system.
NWS Guam has issued multiple advisories for the Marianas as a result of this low-pressure system that is making its way to the Marianas from Japan.
Currently, the Marianas has a high wind watch in effect, a high surf advisory, a rip current advisory, and a fire weather watch in effect.
According to NWS’ high wind watch advisory, from today through Thursday, the Marianas can expect northeast winds of 25 to 35 mph, and gusts of up to 45 mph is possible. This means damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines, with widespread power outages possible.
In addition, NWS warns that travel could be difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles. NWs explains that this is a result of an extensive synoptic low-pressure system moving off the coast of Japan, in addition to a strong high pressure system following closely behind it.
“[This] will produce a substantially stronger shear line that could bring damaging winds to the region Wednesday,” said NWS.
Because of the threat, Gov. Arnold I. Palacios is advising the public to monitor the latest forecasts and warnings for updates on this situation.
“Fasten loose objects or shelter objects in a safe location prior to the onset of winds,” the governor advises.
Aside from strong winds, NWS also warns about the high surf brought by the incoming systems and a high risk of rip currents through Friday.
High surf essentially means large breaking waves of 8 to 10 feet, increasing to 12 to 14 feet today along with dangerous rip currents.
These conditions are expected for west and north facing reefs of the Marianas.
NWS advises that these conditions result in dangerous swimming and surfing conditions and localized beach erosion.
“Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water,” NWS says.
As for the fire weather watch, NWS warns that this advisory will remain in effect through Thursday as gusty winds will lead to the rapid spread of any fire.
“Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is not recommended,” said the advisory.
Weather advisory
