Haze from Hawaii fires reaches Saipan
The National Weather Service based off of Tiyan, Guam announced yesterday that haze from the Hawaii fires have reached Saipan and in response, the Office of the Governor in conjunction with CNMI Homeland Security have implemented a volcanic haze advisory.
Yesterday, the NWS shared that haze from the Hawaiian island fires have migrated to the CNMI and were reportedly seen across Saipan and parts of Rota.
“We have been receiving reports of haze across Saipan and northern parts of Rota this morning. Based on available weather information at this time, we believe it from the volcanic activity in the Hawaiian Islands that been carried to the northern CNMI via the trade winds,” said NWS’ statement.
More specifically, multispectral satellite imagery showed a narrowband of haze reaching the Marianas along easterly trade-wind flow pointing back to the Hawaii region.
NWS stated that it is likely this haze originated during the recent Kilauea activity from Sept. 10 to16.
“Depending on winds around the Marianas, the density of haze will be variable the next few days,” the forecast states.
Due to this, NWS warns the communities of the CNMI that haze may remain on the islands for the next couple of days as trades winds continue.
“For the next few days, expect the trade winds to continue with only a few isolated showers. This may keep haze around the northern CNMI,” said NWS.
In response, Gov. Arnold I. Palacios, in conjunction with the CNMI Homeland Security has issued a volcanic haze advisory which will remain in effect through the next few days.
According to the advisory, the CNMI community can expect reduced visibility to below 5 miles from volcanic haze and individuals with poor respiratory conditions are encouraged to stay indoors.
Although this haze is no threat to the CNMI, Palacios says residents and visitors are advised to listen and stay informed for the latest statements and forecasts from the NWS and CNMI EOC.
“Keep alert for any statements from local officials or call the CNMI Emergency Operations center at 670-237-8000 or on HF single side band radio at frequency 5.205.0,” said the advisory.
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