Saipan--CNMI Gov. David Apatang has placed the commonwealth under a state of significant emergency in anticipation of Super Typhoon Bavi, which is forecast to bring winds of 85 mph.

(NWS) Typhoon Bavi has maintained a steady trend of intensification overnight and has now been upgraded to a typhoon, the National Weather Service said, noting that rapid intensification is expected today and over the next day or two as it tracks toward the Mariana Islands.

By Pacific Island Times News Staff Tropical Depression 09W was upgraded to a tropical storm early this morning, with maximum sustained winds of 40 mph. It is expected to intensify in the coming days, presenting significant concern for all of the Mariana Islands, from Guam to Pagan. The National Weather Service Guam described Tropical Storm 09W as a significant threat for Guam and the CNMI as it maintained a track toward the region. A special weather statement remains in effec