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Powerful Storm Approaches Northern Mariana Islands, Guam on Alert

4/14/2026

36 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The storm, which has already damaged the Federated States of Micronesia, is approaching the Northern Mariana Islands with sustained winds of 278 km/h (173 mph).
It is expected to make landfall as a Category 4 or 5.
Guam is under a tropical storm warning, with high winds and flooding anticipated.
Emergency disaster declarations have been approved for Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands to aid recovery efforts.

History

Historical Context

Typhoon Paka, which struck Guam on December 16, 1997, was one of the strongest Pacific typhoons, with winds exceeding 250 km/h (155 mph). It caused extensive damage, leaving 5,000 homeless and prompting over $100 million in federal aid. The approaching storm, with winds of 278 km/h (173 mph), underscores the ongoing vulnerability of Pacific islands to severe weather, necessitating improved disaster preparedness.

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Story summary

The storm, which has already damaged the Federated States of Micronesia, is approaching the Northern Mariana Islands with sustained winds of 278 km/h (173 mph).
It is expected to make landfall as a Category 4 or 5.
Guam is under a tropical storm warning, with high winds and flooding anticipated.
Emergency disaster declarations have been approved for Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands to aid recovery efforts.

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