Five Emergency Evacuation Centers open ahead of Typhoon Champi

Five emergency evacuation centers are now open for residents seeking safe shelter from Typhoon Champi, according to the Joint Information Center.

The Joint Information Center Release No. 4 said Machananao Elementary School, Maria Ulloa Elementary School, Astumbo Elementary School, George Washington High School and Talofofo Elementary School are designated emergency evacuation centers and can accommodate up to 1,964 people.

Capacity per school is as follows:

Machananao Elementary School: 334
Astumbo Elementary School: 287
Maria A. Ulloa Elementary School: 349
George Washington High School: 683
Talofofo Elementary School: 311

National Weather Service Meteorologist in Charge Brandon Aydlett told Guam News Network that individuals and families living in homes made of wood and tin should seek shelter at an evacuation center.

"This will be a worst experience than we had with Sinlaku and Bavi. Prepare. This is a situation that you should really be in a concrete structure. Fully concrete walls, roof. If you're not, find another place to be," Aydlett said.

The JIC said households intending to shelter at one of the emergency evacuation centers should bring essential supplies for each family member, including:

A seven-day supply of food and water per person
Bedding
Personal hygiene products
Required medications
A seven-day supply of infant and toddler items, including diapers, formula and baby food
A valid photo ID
Important documents, such as birth certificates, passports and immunization records

The shelters are operated by the Guam Department of Education, which has implemented the following rules for participants:

Registration is required upon arrival.
Children must remain under parental supervision at all times.
Alcohol, illegal drugs, weapons and pets are prohibited.
Smoking is permitted only in designated areas.
Cooking devices are not allowed.
EEC occupants must remain at the facility until authorities declare it safe to leave.

"Residents who expect to need emergency shelter are urged to go to their nearest EEC before conditions worsen," the JIC said.

The JIC also advised residents to make final preparations to harden their homes and properties against typhoon-force winds. According to Aydlett, weather conditions will begin to deteriorate at noon.

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This storm watch update is brought to you by senatorial candidates Clynt Ridgell, "Let's Grow Guam Together"; Sabrina Salas Matanane, "Bri the Difference"; and Chief Energy Partners, "Your Power. Your Terms. Your Lifestyle." Special thanks to sponsors Donna Muna Quinata, "Driven to Serve"; Burger King; and MacTech Guam.

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