Super Typhoon Bavi makes landfall on US Pacific islands | Climate News
Super Typhoon Bavi Strikes Northern Mariana Islands, Causing Significant Damage
Published: July 6, 2026
Rota, Northern Mariana Islands – Local officials report “major damages” as Super Typhoon Bavi has made landfall in the northern Pacific Ocean near Guam. The powerful storm brought winds exceeding 150 miles per hour (241 kilometers per hour), comparable to a Category 5 hurricane, according to the U.S. National Weather Service (NWS).
Bavi passed over Rota early Monday morning local time. As it approached, the NWS advised residents to treat the incoming winds as if a tornado were imminent and to seek shelter immediately.
The storm, moving west at approximately 9 miles per hour (14 kilometers per hour) towards the Philippines, has also impacted other areas within the Northern Mariana Islands and Guam, both U.S. territories. These regions are still recovering from Super Typhoon Sinlaku, which struck in mid-April.
The Northern Mariana Islands and Guam together have a population of around 210,000. While local authorities have confirmed significant damage on Rota, the full extent remains uncertain due to ongoing communication challenges.
In addition to Rota, typhoon and flash flood warnings are currently in effect for Guam, Tinian, and Saipan, with tropical storm warnings and watches issued for other nearby islands.
The NWS estimates that the region could receive over 20 inches (51 centimeters) of rain. Although Bavi is moving faster than Sinlaku, the islands may continue to experience tropical storm conditions until at least Monday night.
Guam Governor Lou Leon Guerrero has urged residents to remain indoors or seek shelter in light of the severe weather.