Tropical Storm Nine intensifies as it nears Guam and the Mariana Islands

As tropical cyclone Neoguri dissipates, another tropical cyclone, Nine (09W), is strengthening in the northwest Pacific. The latest warning (#3) by the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) reports Nine being upgraded to a tropical storm. On Friday July 11, (local time; Thursday in U.S.), a tropical storm watch was issued for the Mariana Islands– Guam and Rota, Tinian, and Saipan, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).

The tropical cyclone is projected to pass over Guam around mid-day on Saturday, July 12, local time, and deliver heavy showers with isolated thunderstorms that will continue into Sunday. Island residents should also expect the system to bring strong winds, hazardous surf and storm surge.

Residents are being urged to start preparing for the storm, by reviewing their disaster plans and being ready to act if a warning is issued. They are being advised to listen closely to the latest information from the NWS and their local emergency management agency.

The JTWC expects the storm to move past the southern islands of the Marianas and gradually strengthen into a typhoon. Tropical Cyclone 09W formed southeast of the Marianas on July 10, local time.

For more information on Tropical Storm Nine:
• Visit the Joint Typhoon Warning Center for the latest updates,
• Follow alerts from the National Weather Service,
• Take a look at information from NASA, and 
• Read an article form the Guam News Network.