NWS Issues Special Weather Statement for the Marianas; Heavy Rain Expected

NWS Issues Special Weather Statement for the Marianas; Heavy Rain Expected

The National Weather Service (NWS) Guam Weather Forecast Office issued a special weather statement for Guam, Rota, Tinian, and Saipan.
 
A tropical disturbance is centered near 13 degrees north latitude and 146 degrees east longitude, about 80 miles southeast of Guam, moving west-northwest.
 
The disturbance and associated monsoon trough will move slowly across the Marianas and cause periods of heavy rain and locally gusty winds this weekend.
 
The following NWS advisories are in effect:
 
flash flood watch is in effect for Guam, Rota, Tinian, and Saipan through late Saturday night, meaning conditions may develop that lead to dangerous flash flooding. Rain amounts of 4 to 8 inches are expected with locally higher amounts possible. Poor drainage areas could see closed roads and even water in some houses. Avoid mountainous areas where flooding could occur. Soil is already saturated due to heavy rains from Typhoon Mangkhut last week, so most of the rains this weekend will be runoff and add to flooding problems.  
 
Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action:
·         Now is the time to clear drainage areas and un-block clogged storm drains in your area to minimize the chance of flooding
·         Residents living near rivers and streams need to review plans for protecting properties
·         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.
small craft advisory for winds is in effect for Tinian and Saipan coastal waters until 6 a.m. Sunday. East winds of 15 to 25 knots with gusts to 30 knots will turn southeast then south as the developing circulation passes near Guam. Inexperienced mariners, especially those operating smaller vessels, should avoid sailing in these conditions.
 
The Offices of Guam Homeland Security and Civil Defense (GHS/OCD) remind the community to practice caution while traveling on the roadways this weekend, allowing enough braking distance between cars. While driving, be alert for low visibilities in very heavy rain, and watch for local flooding of roads. Take flood preparedness action now and avoid hiking or camping near flood prone areas.
 
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/
 
For more information, contact GHS/OCD Public Information Officer, Jenna G. Blas at (671) 489-2540 or via email at jenna.g.blas@ghs.guam.gov
 
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