Daijiworld Media Network - Washington

Washington, Apr 14: A powerful super typhoon, Super Typhoon Sinlaku, is bearing down on remote US territories in the Pacific, prompting emergency measures as authorities warn of destructive winds, heavy rainfall, and flooding.

The storm, currently one of the strongest systems recorded this year, is expected to pass over the Northern Mariana Islands, including Saipan, Tinian and Rota, by late Tuesday. Wind speeds have reached up to 173 mph, placing it in the Category 4–5 range.

Though Guam is not forecast to take a direct hit, the island is already experiencing heavy rain and wind gusts, with authorities urging residents to remain indoors and businesses largely shut.

The National Weather Service warned of potential power outages, flooding, and widespread damage as the storm approaches. Around 50,000 residents across the affected islands are in the typhoon’s path.

Before intensifying toward US territories, the storm caused damage across parts of the Federated States of Micronesia, particularly in the Chuuk region.

US President Donald Trump has approved emergency disaster declarations for Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, enabling federal assistance. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has deployed personnel and resources to support relief and preparedness efforts.

Officials cautioned that recovery could be prolonged due to the islands’ remote location, with concerns over disruptions to electricity, water supply, and transport infrastructure.

Super typhoons, monitored by the Joint Typhoon Warning Center, are among the most intense tropical cyclones globally, equivalent to major hurricanes in the Atlantic.