**Super Typhoon Bavi Makes Landfall on US Pacific Islands**
*July 6, 2026 – Rota, Northern Mariana Islands*
Super Typhoon Bavi has made landfall on the United States territorial islands in the western Pacific, specifically impacting the Northern Mariana Islands and Guam. The storm, classified as a “super typhoon,” brought with it devastating winds exceeding 150 mph (241 km/h), equivalent to a category-five hurricane, as reported by the US National Weather Service (NWS).
The eye of the storm passed over Rota, the southernmost island in the Northern Mariana chain, early on the morning of July 6, 2026. Local authorities have reported significant damage, including fallen trees and structural impacts, though the full extent of the destruction remains uncertain due to challenges in communication. Rota is located less than 80 kilometers (50 miles) north of Guam and is home to a small population, which is now facing the aftermath of the storm.
In response to the approaching typhoon, the NWS had earlier advised residents of Rota to treat the extreme winds as if a tornado were imminent. Residents were urged to seek shelter in interior rooms or designated safe areas. The storm's rapid movement at approximately 9 mph (14 km/h) has raised concerns about the potential for severe weather conditions to linger in the region.
The Northern Mariana Islands and Guam, which together house around 210,000 residents, are still recovering from the impacts of Super Typhoon Sinlaku, which struck the area in mid-April. As Bavi progresses, authorities have issued typhoon and flash flood warnings for Rota, as well as for Tinian and Saipan, while tropical storm warnings and watches are in effect for other nearby islands.
The NWS has indicated that Bavi could deliver significant rainfall, with forecasts predicting up to 20 inches (51 cm) in some areas. Despite the storm moving more quickly than its predecessor, Sinlaku, the potential for tropical storm conditions is expected to persist until at least Monday night.
In a video message shared via social media, Guam Governor Lou Leon Guerrero emphasized the importance of safety and urged residents to remain indoors or seek shelter as the storm approached. The local government is actively monitoring the situation and coordinating emergency responses to ensure the safety of all residents.
As the storm continues its path westward towards the Philippines, the immediate focus remains on assessing the damage in the Northern Mariana Islands and Guam, while ensuring the safety and well-being of the affected populations. Emergency services are on standby to respond to any urgent needs arising from the storm's impact.