Story perspectives

Typhoon Sinlaku Hits Guam, Declares Public Health Emergency

4/19/2026

Center

Kennedy Declares Emergency

Typhoon Sinlaku struck Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands on April 11 as a Category 5 storm, causing severe damage and flooding.
Emergency declarations were issued.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. declared a public health emergency to assist those affected.
The storm arrived earlier than the typical typhoon season, and U.S. territories face ongoing challenges, including a lack of federal support for disaster recovery and climate change mitigation.

Left

Tornado Outbreak Strikes

In April 2026, a severe tornado outbreak hit the central United States, causing widespread damage and flooding.
The event produced more than 120 hail reports and at least 24 tornadoes.
Rochester, Minnesota, and Lena, Illinois, sustained significant damage, prompting emergency responses.
Wisconsin faced a train derailment from flooding, with the Wolf River reaching record levels, evacuations ordered in Shiocton, and no fatalities reported.

History

Historical Context

In 1979, Typhoon Tip became the strongest tropical cyclone ever recorded, with wind speeds exceeding 190 mph and causing nearly 100 fatalities in Japan. This event underscored the vulnerability of regions to extreme weather, similar to the recent devastation from Typhoon Sinlaku in Guam. The ongoing challenges of disaster recovery and climate change highlight the need for enhanced preparedness and federal support in affected areas.

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Kennedy Declares Emergency

Typhoon Sinlaku struck Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands on April 11 as a Category 5 storm, causing severe damage and flooding.
Emergency declarations were issued.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. declared a public health emergency to assist those affected.
The storm arrived earlier than the typical typhoon season, and U.S. territories face ongoing challenges, including a lack of federal support for disaster recovery and climate change mitigation.

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