A flood watch remains in effect through Wednesday morning for Guam, Rota, Saipan and Tinian, as officials warn that flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible, according to a Joint Information Center update Monday at 3 a.m.
The National Weather Service Guam Weather Forecast Office said initial rainfall totals of 0.8 to 2.4 inches are expected to cause minor flooding today, but the threat is expected to increase significantly as Typhoon Sinlaku approaches.
Sinlaku is projected to cross the Marianas on Tuesday and could bring 15 to 20 inches of rain near its center. Current tracking suggests Guam could receive 6 to 12 inches of rain, with locally higher amounts possible.
A flash flood warning also remains in effect for Guam until 3:30 a.m. local time. Officials said 2 to 3 inches of rain had already been recorded, and flash flooding was either ongoing or expected to begin shortly. Flooding has already been reported along Cross Island Road.
Residents and motorists are being urged to use extreme caution and avoid flooded areas. Officials warned drivers not to attempt to travel through flooded roadways and reminded the public to “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
People living in flood-prone areas are being told to clear drainage areas and unblock storm drains to help reduce flooding. Residents and visitors are also advised to avoid camping, parking or hiking near streams and rivers, which can flood quickly and without warning.
Officials said drivers should remain alert for low visibility, slippery roads and ponding water, and should reduce speed in heavy rain. During thunderstorms, residents are urged to stay indoors, noting that tents, canopies and tarps are not safe shelter. The public is also being advised to remain out of the water while advisories are in effect.
Emergency shelters across Guam continued to see rising occupancy early Monday. As of 2:18 a.m. April 13, a total of 759 people were staying in shelters across the island.
Machananao Elementary School had the highest occupancy at 285 people, or 85% of capacity. Astumbo Elementary School was housing 197 people, or 69% of capacity, while Maria A. Ulloa Elementary School had 178 people, or 51% of capacity. George Washington High School had 51 occupants, Merizo Martyrs Memorial School had 21, Inalahan Middle School had 15 and Talo’fo’fo Elementary School had 12.
The GBHWC Suicide and Crisis Lifeline remains available around the clock. Community members may call or text 988 or chat online at 988lifeline.org.
Officials are asking the public to stay informed, follow advisories and report flooding to local emergency services or law enforcement when it is safe to do so.
