Second Super Typhoon of 2026 Threatens Northern Marianas
The Northern Marianas Islands are bracing for Super Typhoon Bavi, the second super typhoon to threaten the region in 2026. Bavi has intensified into a Category 5-equivalent storm, with sustained winds reaching 162 mph, according to the Joint Typhoon Warning Center.
In April, Super Typhoon Sinlaku struck the islands, causing significant infrastructure damage and prolonged power outages. Sinlaku's impact included severe flooding and the capsizing of a cargo ship, resulting in casualties.
With Bavi's approach, the Government of Guam has declared Condition of Readiness 2, and typhoon warnings are in effect for Guam, Rota, Tinian, and Saipan. As of July 5, Bavi was located approximately 300 miles east of Guam, moving west-northwest at 7 mph.
The Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) has activated emergency shelters, with 292 individuals already taking refuge. The CNMI government continues to dismantle temporary structures from Sinlaku's aftermath, urging residents to prepare for Bavi's potential landfall.
The U.S. President approved an emergency declaration on July 3, enabling federal assistance through FEMA. The declaration underscores the urgency of preparations as Bavi threatens to deliver catastrophic winds and significant damage to the region.