Super Typhoon Sinlaku Hits Northern Mariana Islands With 185 Mph Winds
Key Takeaways
- Category 5-equivalent typhoon Sinlaku threatens CNMI and Guam.
- Warnings issued; CNMI and Guam enact readiness measures.
- Among the strongest storms of 2026 worldwide.
Super Typhoon Sinlaku Intensifies
Super Typhoon Sinlaku rapidly intensified into a Category 5 storm with sustained winds of 180 mph and a central pressure of 896 mbar.
“1of5 Red Crossers clean shelter cots in preparation for Typhoon Sinlaku’s landfall on Guam”
The storm underwent explosive rapid intensification over unusually warm April sea waters in the Western Pacific.
The Joint Typhoon Warning Center upgraded Sinlaku's peak winds to 185 mph.
The typhoon was tracking toward the Northern Mariana Islands and Guam, with the cone of potential most severe impact shifting to the Northern Marianas.
Sinlaku's eyewall was projected to move across Saipan and Tinian with the force of a high-end Category 4 or even Category 5 storm.
Northern Marianas Brace for Impact
Governor David Apatang placed Saipan, Tinian and Rota under Typhoon Condition I.
The US National Weather Service warned that damaging winds could begin Monday night.
Residents on Saipan and Tinian were told to prepare for Category 4 conditions.
Rota was forecast to experience Category 1 conditions.
Shelters across the islands opened Sunday afternoon.
Health services were scaling back.
Guam Prepares for Tropical Storm
Guam's typhoon threat eased slightly as Sinlaku shifted north.
“Right now, a weather phenomenon threatens U”
Guam remained under a tropical storm warning and a typhoon watch.
Tropical storm force winds of 40 to 50 mph were expected beginning Monday evening.
Flooding was a serious concern, with a flash flood watch in effect.
A high surf warning remained in effect with breaking waves of 10 to 15 feet expected for Guam.
The forecast for Tinian and Saipan was far grimmer.
Red Cross Mobilizes
The American Red Cross deployed more than 100 disaster volunteers.
Shelters opened in partnership with island Education Departments.
Residents were urged to bring prescription medications and essential supplies.
All disaster assistance is free and no identification is required.
The Red Cross called on the public to donate and volunteer.
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