90W continues to organize as it moves toward the Marianas

(NWS)--The National Weather Service Guam Weather Forecast Office continues to monitor Invest Area 90W. As of 4 a.m., 90W was located near 9.2 degrees north latitude and 152.4 degrees east longitude, about 80 miles north of Chuuk, 570 miles east-southeast of Guam, moving northwest at 6 mph, with maximum sustained winds of 18-23 mph.

It is expected to maintain this general course with an increase in forward speed in the coming days as it steadily intensifies.

What to Expect

Current model guidance shows a more likely scenario of 90W, possibly an intensifying tropical storm, passing south of Guam. However, this track could change with a southward or northward shift. There remains a small possibility of the system shifting northward, over Guam or through the Marianas, bringing stronger winds and heavier rains. 

Fair, breezy weather will continue for the next couple of days. The Marianas 

should expect increasing showers, thunderstorms, and gusty winds, developing late Saturday and continuing into early next week. The heaviest rainfall and possible onset of damaging winds of 39mph are anticipated more Sunday night into early Tuesday.

Residents and visitors are advised to take the following precautionary actions:

·         Those living in flood-prone areas should prepare to take action, such as clearing drainage areas and unblocking storm drains to minimize the potential for flooding;

·         Stay up to date with the latest information;

·         Clear loose debris around your yard and prepare to secure any items, such as tents and canopies, that could become airborne with heavy winds, before inclement weather arrives;

o   Prepare to secure construction sites and loose items on sites.

o   Secure or be prepared to take down signs such as campaign signs

·         Have an emergency kit prepared: Store enough food and water for your household for 7-10 days. Include medication, disinfectant supplies and pet supplies;

o   Secure important documents such as birth certificates, tax papers, and insurance documents and keep copies in a water-proof bag;

·         Review your emergency plan: If you do not have a plan, learn how to create an emergency plan; Have plans for your family members and pets. If you are a person with disabilities or a caregiver for elderly, you may need to take extra steps to plan for those additional needs.

Building easterly swell will continue to maintain a high risk of rip currents along east-facing reefs of the Marianas into the weekend. As the intensifying tropical disturbance, Invest 90W, passes near the Marianas, swells will continue to bring elevated surf along east and potentially south-facing reefs during the weekend.

Guam Power Authority advises the public that high winds can cause trees and branches to fall.

Outdoor items such as lawn furniture, canopies and garbage cans can become projectiles in high winds.

Residents are advised to secure all lightweight objects and anchor any items that may become airborne. Clear clogged rain gutters of debris to prevent water damage to your property. Install typhoon shutters or board up windows with 5/8” exterior-grade or marine plywood.

Those who need to evacuate to an emergency shelter are advised to shut off incoming electricity at the main breaker or switch, usually located by the electric meter or in the circuit breaker panel, before leaving home.

Those who are dependent on an electrically powered life support system are advised to consider installing a backup generator. Otherwise, make plans ahead of time to go to an alternate location where electricity will be available, such as hospitals. Be prepared to take your medical equipment and medications with you.

To protect your electric equipment from power outages and fluctuations caused by tropical storms, unplug unnecessary and sensitive electronic equipment. Use high-quality surge suppressors for electric appliances that remain plugged in.

The Authority provides the following tips for the safe operation of and use of generators:

Connecting a generator

· Never try to power a house/building wiring by plugging the generator into a wall outlet, a practice known as "back feeding.” It can lead to the electrocution of utility workers or neighbors served by the same utility transformer. The only safe way to connect a generator to a house/building wiring is to have a qualified electrician install a power transfer switch.

· Use proper extension cords. Use only safety-tested, shop-type electrical cords designed and rated for heavier, outdoor use to connect appliances.