Increased rainfall seen in next two days

A tropical disturbance has been located southeast of Guam and there is a possibility it will strengthen in the next two days.

Based on the information from the National Weather Service in Tiyan, Guam, a broad circulation is centered near 12N and 148E, which is about 250 miles east southeast of Guam. Rain bands associated with the circulation cover a large area, which includes most of the Mariana Islands.

Computer models indicate this system will gradually become better organized. The center is expected to pass through the far Northern Mariana Islands on Wednesday night or Thursday. The monsoon trough will lift northward in tandem with the tropical disturbance. As a result, rain bands accompanied by gusty northwest to southwest winds can be expected for Guam as well as the Northern Mariana Islands during the next couple of days. The potential exists for locally heavy rainfall. Additional rainfall amounts of 2 to 4 inches are possible. Rainfall amounts will vary depending on the exact track and future development of the disturbance.

This remains a steadily evolving weather pattern that will need to be monitored closely. The public is being urged to stay informed on this developing situation. Keep abreast of the latest forecasts and listen for any further statements or warnings from the Homeland Security and Emergency Management Office.

The agency will be monitoring the movement of this tropical disturbance and will be issuing bulletins as they become available. Please continue to monitor the official bulletins that will be available through local media sources and NOAA weather radio broadcast on 162.5 megahertz, or dial 211, or CNMI EOC Dispatch Center at 237-8000, and for the Northern Islands to contact CNMI EOC Dispatch Center at high frequency single side band radio on frequency 5.205.0.