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PSS, Aging Center open for shelter
In light of the approaching Typhoon Mangkhut, the Public School System and the Office of the Aging have opened up some of their facilities as possible evacuation shelters.
After receiving confirmation from interim Education commissioner Glenn Muña over the weekend, PSS is opening up seven shelter locations throughout the CNMI: the Tanapag Middle School, Koblerville Elementary School, Kagman High School, and the Marianas High School on Saipan, Tinian Elementary School and Tinian Junior/Senior High School on Tinian, and the Rita H. Inos Junior/Senior High School on Rota. The schools, according to Muna, were opened for shelter since 4pm yesterday.
Saipan Tribune also confirmed that the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs’ Office of Aging is also open for shelter starting this morning, while the Commonwealth Healthcare Corp. is also opening its doors to high-risk individuals, such as pregnant women.
CHCC protocols for shelter have yet to be confirmed as of publication, and would be disseminated once available.
According to previous interviews, Muña noted that the Tanapag Middle School could house up to 40 civilians; Kagman High School could house up to 80 civilians, Koblerville Elementary School could house 46 civilians, and Tinian Elementary School could house up to 40 civilians.
The specific number for the remaining schools has yet to be confirmed.
DCCA Secretary Robert Hunter, in a previous interview, also noted that 40 civilians may be sheltered at the Aging Office in Garapan.
Gov. Ralph DLG Torres declared yesterday a Typhoon Condition 2 for the islands of Saipan, Rota, and Tinian as of 5pm yesterday.
Shortly after Torres’ declaration, PSS and the Northern Marianas College announced their cancellation of classes for today. Several business establishments yesterday have also declared their closure today in anticipation of the typhoon.
Typhoon Condition 2 means destructive winds of 74mph or more are possible within the next 24 hours.
For those in need of transportation to any of the shelters, you may call the CNMI State Warning Point at 237-8000 for assistance.
