Super Typhoon Bavi landfall brought destructive winds and heavy rain to Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands as one of the strongest storms to threaten the U.S. Pacific territories in recent years moved across the region.
The powerful storm reached the islands with sustained winds of nearly 290 km/h (180 mph) and wind gusts reaching about 350 km/h. Weather officials warned that the dangerous conditions could cause severe damage to homes, buildings, roads, and power systems.
The U.S. National Weather Service issued urgent warnings before the storm arrived. Forecasters said Bavi could produce life-threatening conditions, including destructive winds, heavy rainfall, flash flooding, and waves as high as 11 meters (35 feet). Officials urged residents to stay indoors and avoid traveling until conditions improved.
Rota, the southernmost inhabited island in the Northern Mariana Islands, was expected to receive the strongest impact as the center of the typhoon passed nearby. Local officials advised residents to complete emergency preparations early because weather conditions would quickly become too dangerous for outdoor activity.
Authorities reported that strong winds and rising floodwaters were already affecting communities. Local officials also received reports of major property damage as the storm moved through the area, although full damage assessments will begin only after conditions become safe.
On the nearby island of Saipan, powerful wind gusts exceeding 161 km/h (100 mph) were recorded at the airport. The severe weather disrupted transportation and increased concerns about damage to buildings, trees, and public infrastructure.
Many residents were still recovering from Super Typhoon Sinlaku, which struck Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands earlier this year. That storm caused widespread destruction, claimed 17 lives, and resulted in an estimated $1.5 billion in damages. The arrival of another major storm has added fresh challenges for local communities.
Weather officials warned that typhoon-force winds could continue through much of Monday before gradually weakening. Tropical storm conditions were also expected to remain in place into the night, delaying recovery efforts.
Guam, home to around 170,000 people, opened several emergency evacuation centers before Bavi arrived. The shelters were mainly intended for older adults, families with young children, people with disabilities, and others considered especially vulnerable during severe weather.
Emergency management officials said one evacuation center reached full capacity before the storm made landfall. Residents arriving later were directed to other available shelters as authorities worked to ensure everyone had a safe place to stay.
Businesses across Guam also prepared for the storm by securing buildings and boarding up windows. Many business owners paused operations to protect employees and reduce the risk of property damage.
Some travelers also faced disruptions. Several flights were canceled as airlines suspended operations because of dangerous weather conditions. Visitors staying on the islands were advised to remain inside hotels until officials declared it safe to travel again.
Bavi has been classified as a super typhoon by the Joint Typhoon Warning Center. Storms receive this classification when their sustained winds exceed 240 km/h. Such storms have destructive power similar to Category 4 or Category 5 hurricanes in the Atlantic Ocean.
The western Pacific is one of the world’s most active regions for tropical cyclones. Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands regularly experience typhoons, especially during the Pacific typhoon season. However, storms with the strength of Bavi remain relatively uncommon for the U.S. territories.
Scientists have reported that warmer ocean temperatures can increase the amount of energy available to tropical storms. Higher sea surface temperatures allow storms to gather more moisture from the ocean, which can strengthen winds and increase rainfall. Climate researchers have also noted that strong El Niño conditions may contribute to more intense storms across parts of the Pacific.
Meteorologists say Bavi is the 11th Category 4 or Category 5 tropical cyclone to affect U.S. territory during the past decade. That total exceeds the number recorded during the previous 57 years, highlighting the increasing frequency of powerful storms in the region.
Emergency officials continue to monitor Super Typhoon Bavi landfall as rescue teams prepare to assess damage once weather conditions improve. Residents have been urged to remain in shelters or inside secure buildings until authorities announce that the danger has passed. Recovery efforts are expected to begin as soon as winds weaken and floodwaters begin to recede.
