Super Typhoon Bavi continued moving closer to the Mariana Islands Sunday morning as Guam remained in Condition of Readiness 2.
As of 7 a.m. Sunday, Bavi was about 300 miles east of Guam, moving west-northwest at 7 mph with maximum sustained winds of 160 mph.
The storm is expected to strengthen further before passing through the Marianas, likely near or over Rota.
For Guam, sustained winds of 60 to 80 mph are now forecast, with gusts up to 100 mph possible. Tropical storm-force winds are expected to begin late Sunday afternoon.
Officials warned that any shift farther south could bring stronger winds to Guam.
The island’s five emergency evacuation centers are now open. Residents who expect to need shelter are being urged to go before conditions deteriorate.
The shelters are located at Machananao Elementary School, Astumbo Elementary School, Maria A. Ulloa Elementary School, Ordot-Chalan Pago Elementary School and Talofofo Elementary School.
Transportation assistance is available through village mayor’s offices.
The Port Authority of Guam is also now under Port Heavy Weather Condition Zulu. All commercial cargo and vessel operations have stopped, and vessels cannot enter or leave the harbor without authorization from the U.S. Coast Guard Captain of the Port.
Access to Port facilities is restricted to essential emergency personnel.
Marine conditions are expected to worsen rapidly. Seas could reach 25 to 35 feet late Sunday through Monday, with waves up to 45 feet possible near the center of Bavi.
Officials are urging the public to stay out of coastal waters and complete storm preparations immediately.
