BREAKING NEWS: Saipan, Tinian under Typhoon Condition I; Rota in Tropical Storm Condition I

Gov. Eloy S. Inos has declared Typhoon Condition I for Saipan and Tinian, while placing Rota in Tropical Storm Condition I as Tropical Storm Chan-Hom continues to intensify.

Based on data compiled by Homeland Security and Emergency Management from the National Weather Service, as of 5am today Chan-Hom was about 90 miles south of Saipan and Tinian and 40 miles east-southeast of Rota.

With maximum sustained winds remain at 45mph, Chan-Hom is moving northwest at 8mph. Tropical storm force winds extend 100 miles outward toward the center. Closest point of approach is expected early tomorrow morning or afternoon, and the system is expected to possibly intensify back to typhoon strength after its passage through the channel.

Inos said Chan-Hom’s erratic nature has truly made it a difficult storm to track.
“I ask that all of you please take precautions to protect life and property as we prepare for the onslaught of heavy rain and damaging winds. Residents of low-lying areas should remain cautious of possible flash flooding in your areas.

HSEM has set up emergency shelters in the following locations:

Saipan
• Tanapag Middle School (664-3425)
• Garapan Elementary School (664-3957)
• Koblerville Elementary School (664-3961)
• Kagman High School (664-3780)
• San Vicente Elementary School (664-3983/4)

Tinian
• Tinian Elementary School (433-9251)

Rota
• Dr. Rita Hocog-Inos Jr./Sr. High School (Songsong) (532-9506)
• Rota Aging Center (Sinapalo) (532-9983)

Inos also urged women who are eight months pregnant and home patients who are dependent on electricity to check-in with their respective island’s health centers.

“The staff of our hospitals stand ready to assist all of you should you need help. Please refrain also from going near exposed or down power lines, as it is possible they may still be energized, and could cause severe or possibly fatal injuries. Also, stay away from coasts and reef lines as hazardous surf will be generated during the duration of the storm,” he said.

He added that Chan-Hom is a system that should not be taken lightly.

“It is a very serious threat to our safety and should not be underestimated. I ask you once again to please stay tuned to local media sources, and to updates from the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management for the latest on Tropical Storm Chan-Hom.”