JIC Release No. 3 - Guam remains in COR 3 at this time; Tropical Depression still moving toward the Marianas

JIC Release No. 3 - Guam remains in COR 3 at this time; Tropical Depression still moving toward the Marianas

The National Weather Service (NWS) – Guam Weather Forecast Office maintains a tropical storm watch in effect for Guam and Rota, meaning tropical storm conditions are possible within the next 24 hours.
Guam remains in Condition of Readiness (COR) 3 at this time. COR 3 means damaging winds of 39-57 mph are expected within 48 hours. Although there is a possibility that Guam can remain in COR 3 for the duration before returning to COR 4, the community should be prepared to take necessary action if conditions significantly worsen. Preparations need to be made in advance.
As of 4 a.m., the center of the tropical depression was located near 11.2 degrees north latitude and 146.6 degrees east longitude; about 200 miles southeast of Guam and 220 miles south-southeast of Rota, moving northwest with maximum sustained winds of 35 mph. It is likely to become a tropical storm by this afternoon or tonight.
As the system moves closer, the threat for sustained high winds will increase. The current forecast is for winds to remain below tropical storm force although gusts may exceed 39 mph especially in heavy showers. It is expected to pass south of Guam, meaning southern Guam and the south Guam coastal waters have a higher threat of damaging winds than northern Guam and Rota. The closest point of approach is forecast around 5 p.m.Saturday but inclement weather is expected before, during and after the storm makes its closest point of approach. Rainfall amounts of up to 2 to 4 inches is possible through Sunday night, with locally higher amounts in heavy showers.
high surf advisory and high risk of rip currents is in effect for Guam, Rota, Tinian, and Saipan until 6 a.m. Monday. For Guam and Rota, hazardous surf of 7 to 9 feet along west and north facing reefs tonight will build to between 9 to 12 feet along north, east and west facing reefs today. The risk of rip currents is high. Avoid venturing near reefs and beaches, especially those facing west. Large breaking waves can knock you down and cause serious injuries. If caught in a rip current, swim parallel to shore and back toward the beach when possible. Do not attempt to swim directly against a rip current. Strong rip currents will be life threatening.
small craft advisory is in effect for Guam and Rota coastal waters until 6 a.m. Monday, producing winds and waves hazardous to small craft. Inexperienced mariners, especially those operating smaller vessels, should avoid sailing in these conditions.  


Prepare for any Scenario
In the event the current forecast track shifts northward, bringing southern Guam in the vicinity of damaging winds, take basic precautionary actions especially for those living in flood prone areas:
INDOOR PREPARATIONS 
·      Roll up carpets away from doors and windows
·      Make lighting supplies easily accessible
·      Unplug all appliances and ensure energy breakers are switched if damaging winds are expected
·      Ensure family members know where the emergency preparedness kits are at. Visithttps://www.ready.gov/build-a-kit for more information on what to include in your supplies list
·      Secure important documents such as birth certificates, tax papers, and insurance documents and keep copies in a water-proof bag
·      Cover beds and furniture with plastic to prevent water damage
·      Stay up to date in the event there are changes in weather conditions
OUTDOOR PREPARATIONS
·      Secure your home
·      Clear loose debris around your yard and store any items that may become airborne with heavy winds, before inclement weather arrives
·      Take down canopies and tarps
·      Clear vegetation 
·      Take down any temporary signs, including those for political campaigns, advertisements, and any other wooden or loosely placed items as these have the ability to lift in heavy winds and cause damage to life and property
·      Gas your vehicles and get fuel for your generators
·      Discuss your emergency plan with household members. Include pets as part of your plan.  
 
Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action:
·      Clear drainage areas and un-block clogged storm drains in your area to minimize the chance of flooding
·      Residents living near rivers and streams should be prepared to take action if flooding occurs
·      Once heavy rains occur, avoid walking or driving through flood waters. Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and 2 feet of water can sweep your vehicle away
·      If there is a chance of flash flooding, move immediately to higher ground
·      If floodwaters rise around your car but the water is not moving, abandon the car and move to higher ground. Do not leave the car and enter moving water.
·      Avoid camping, parking, or hiking along streams, rivers, and creeks during heavy rainfall. These areas can flood quickly and with little warning.
·      Visit https://www.ready.gov/floods to learn more. 
 
Visit the following links for the latest advisory information:
·         NWS Website: http://www.prh.noaa.gov/guam/
·         NWS Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NWSGuam/
·         GHS/OCD Website: https://ghs.guam.gov/
·         GHS/OCD Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GHSOCD/
·         Governor Calvo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eddiebazacalvo/
·         Joint Region Marianas Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jrmguam/
For more information, contact the GHS/OCD 24/7 watch desk at (671) 475-9600 or (671) 482-7019.
 
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