Flash flooding was reported along Cross Island Road early Monday as Typhoon Sinlaku closed in on the Marianas, with the National Weather Service issuing both a Flash Flood Warning and a Flash Flood Watch for Guam through Wednesday morning.
The Flash Flood Warning in effect until 3:30 a.m., came after roughly 2 inches of rain were already recorded across the island. A broader Flash Flood Watch remains in effect through Wednesday, with Sinlaku projected to dump 6 to 12 inches of rain on Guam, with locally higher amounts possible. Areas near the storm’s center could see 15 to 20 inches.
Motorists are urged to avoid flooded roadways. Officials warned that just 6 inches of moving water can knock a person down, and 2 feet can sweep a vehicle away. “Turn Around, Don’t Drown,” NWS said.
Shelter Update
As of 2:18 a.m. Monday, Guam’s seven emergency shelters collectively housed 759 of a combined 2,623 available spaces — an overall occupancy rate of 29 percent.
Machananao Elementary School remained the most occupied at 85 percent, followed by Astumbo Elementary at 69 percent and Maria A. Ulloa Elementary at 51 percent. George Washington High School stood at 7 percent. Southern shelters had the most availability, with Talo’fo’fo Elementary at 4 percent, Merizo Martyrs at 7 percent and Inalahan Middle School at 4 percent.
Residents still seeking shelter are urged to head to southern locations where space is widely available. The GBHWC Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 at 988.
This Storm Update is brought to you by Storm Sponsors: Tenorio Muna Barnes-Building Guam’s future together and Wise Owl Animal Hospital.