Super-typhoon Bavi causes 'major damage' on U.S. island of Rota

The U.S. island of Rota is facing catastrophic damage as super-typhoon Bavi makes landfall, unleashing violent winds and torrential rain. Officials reported "major damage" as the storm, equivalent to a Category 5 hurricane, battered the island with sustained winds of 290 km/h and gusts potentially reaching 350 km/h.

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We are holding on. We are currently experiencing strong winds and flooding here. Some people are already reporting major damage.

The National Weather Service (NWS) issued dire warnings, predicting "catastrophic damage" and "a life-threatening situation." The NWS stated that much of Rota, home to about 1,500 residents, could be "uninhabitable for weeks, if not longer." They anticipate that many non-concrete homes will be destroyed, with total roof destruction and wall collapses.

Residents are experiencing severe impacts, with mobile phone services cut off after a relay antenna fell. Lou Rosario, spokesperson for Rota's municipal operations center, confirmed the ongoing damage. "We are holding on. We are currently experiencing strong winds and flooding here," he said.

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The western wall of the eye of super typhoon Bavi is currently crossing the island of Rota.

Mayor Aubry Hocog urged community solidarity, stating, "By working together and taking the necessary precautions, we can help protect our families, our neighbors, and our community. We pray for the safety of our people." Several hundred people have taken refuge in evacuation centers, including the Guam Plaza hotel, which is equipped with a generator.

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Many homes not built of concrete and not reinforced will be destroyed, with total destruction of roofs and collapse of walls.

This is not the first time the region has faced such devastation. Both Rota and nearby Guam, another U.S. territory, were severely impacted by super-typhoon Sinlaku in April. Guam also endured the destructive force of typhoon Mawar in 2023, which left tens of thousands without power. The NWS noted that conditions are expected to gradually improve as the super-typhoon moves away from the region.

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By working together and taking the necessary precautions, we can help protect our families, our neighbors, and our community. We pray for the safety of our people.