'When it comes to these threats, we have to be ready to rock and roll:' Marianas, Micronesia can expect up to seven more storms in 2026
- Admin
- 26 minutes ago
- 3 min read
By Bryan Manabat
Saipan— Guam, Rota, Tinian and Saipan can expect between four and seven named tropical storms in the region for the remainder of 2026, with three to five of those developing into typhoons, according to Landon Aydlett, meteorologist at the National Weather Service Guam.
Two or three of those storms are expected to reach major typhoon intensity, Aydlett said at Friday's Joint Guam/CNMI Typhoon Preparedness Month press conference.
Aydlett emphasized that the outlook reflects how many storms are likely to form or pass through the area, not whether any will make landfall.
“We’re not guaranteed to take another direct hit,” he said, “but the likelihood of a direct hit is going to be much higher than a La Niña year.”
The higher‑than‑average prediction is tied to the ongoing El Niño pattern, which shifts storm formation farther east of Guam. Systems that form earlier and farther east have more time to intensify before reaching the Marianas.
During La Niña years, such as 2025, storms tend to form farther west, strengthening as they move away from Micronesia rather than toward it.
Aydlett said the Marianas are not the only islands expecting increased activity. Northern CNMI may see three to five storms, including two or three typhoons and up to two major typhoons.
Yap could experience three to five storms, with as many as three becoming typhoons and one reaching major intensity.
Palau is forecast to see two to four named storms, with one or two strengthening into typhoons.
Chuuk may see four to six storms, up to three typhoons and one major system, while Pohnpei may see three to five storms, up to three typhoons and one major. Kosrae and nearby islands may see one to three storms, with at most one becoming a typhoon.
The Marshall Islands may see between two and four storms in the northern atolls, with up to two typhoons and one major system, while the southern Marshalls may see one or two storms, with at most one reaching typhoon strength.
Aydlett said the intensity of recent storms, including Sinlaku, has strengthened interagency relationships.
“One of the side effects of typhoon preparedness is that everyone we work with becomes best friends,” he said. “When it comes to these threats, we have to be ready to rock and roll.”
Aydlett cautioned that even in El Niño years — which historically bring more storms — weather patterns do not always behave as expected.
“This is not a time to panic, but it’s just a reminder to prepare and be ready,” he said. “Readiness and preparedness should be year‑round for all of us in the islands, because disasters can strike at any time, whether it is a typhoon or an earthquake.
In their closing remarks, Guam Gov. Lourdes A. Leon Guerrero and CNMI Gov. David M. Apatang urged unity, cooperation and preparedness as the Marianas enter another typhoon season.
Both leaders stressed that stronger planning, better coordination and community‑wide action are essential to protecting lives and strengthening island communities.
Leon Guerrero thanked emergency planners, weather officials, homeland security leaders, first responders and other stakeholders for helping Guam and the CNMI better understand storm risks and improve disaster response. She said that while severe weather remains a serious threat, each storm also offers lessons that make the islands more prepared and more resilient.
She also highlighted the importance of Guam’s partnership with the Commonwealth, noting that the islands depend on one another’s resources and support during typhoons and other challenges. Speaking on behalf of the people of Guam, she said the goal of continued collaboration is to help leaders make sound decisions that protect communities across the region.
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Apatang thanked Guam officials for including the CNMI in the event and praised federal and military partners, local agencies, nonprofit groups, utility crews, volunteers and residents who contributed to past recovery efforts.
He said preparedness is a shared responsibility that begins in homes, schools, workplaces and villages, urging residents to review emergency plans, build disaster supply kits, stay informed and check on neighbors who may need extra help.
He closed by calling on the people of Guam and the CNMI to carry forward lessons from past storms and continue working together to safeguard the islands.
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