Widespread flooding

Several areas in the CNMI experienced widespread flooding yesterday as a result of Typhoon Cimaron as it passed through Saipan, Tinian, and the Northern Islands.

Saipan in particular bore the brunt of Typhoon Cimaron yesterday, as heavy rains caused flooding in both high and low areas of the island. Flooded areas included Koblerville, Beach Road, Garapan, As Lito, the airport, San Antonio, and more.

Large amounts of surface dirt and silt were also eroded due to the downpour, causing various streets and highways to overflow with mud.

According to an Office of the Governor statement, rainfall of 4 to 6 inches was recorded yesterday but residents of Saipan and Tinian can still expect 6 to 8 inches of rain as Typhoon Cimaron passes through.

A flash flood watch is in effect for Saipan, Tinian, Alamagan, Pagan, and Agrihan due to Typhoon Cimaron’s slow motion and its potential for excessive rainfall.

Typhoon Cimaron is forecasted to intensify through today.

As of 1pm yesterday, Typhoon Cimaron was reported to be moving west-northwest at 7 mph, and is expected to make a slight turn toward the northwest, with an increase in forward speed over the next 24 hours with maximum sustained winds of 75 mph.

There were no reports, however, of power or water outages.

The U. S. Coast Guard is on “yankee status,” meaning all seaport operations have been suspended until further notice.

Federal court closed

U.S. District Court for the NMI Chief Judge Ramona V. Manglona ordered yesterday morning the court’s closure.

The District Court was ordered closed at 10:30am; at that time, Saipan was in Tropical Storm Condition II status.

Manglona said Tropical Storm Condition II means damaging winds of 39 miles per hour are expected within the next six to 12 hours.

The judge said there is an imminent risk of damaging winds and flash flooding from the storm.

There was no scheduled hearing yesterday.

Manglona said CM/ECF electronic filing system, however, will remain online, unaffected by the court’s closure.

The court is presently scheduled to re-open at normal business hours today, Tuesday.

A change of plea hearing will be held today, Tuesday, at 9am, in the case against Kosuke Tomokiyo, who is facing charges of fraud and misuse of visas and permits. (With Ferdie de la Torre)