Typhoon Bavi Approaches Guam, Residents Prepare for Impact

Residents of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands are bracing for the impact of Typhoon Bavi, a powerful Category 5 storm. The typhoon is forecast to bring destructive winds of up to 88 meters per second and significant storm surges reaching 11 meters.

Authorities have issued warnings, with the U.S. National Weather Service describing the typhoon as "very dangerous" and predicting widespread destruction. Residents have been rushing to complete final preparations and seek shelter in emergency facilities.

The storm's heavy rainfall is also expected to cause substantial flooding. "I can't afford to lose so many days. It's painful. Since I just started, all income now goes to rent, bills, staff, and supplies. I'm not even paying myself a salary yet," said Pinky Cubacub, a 55-year-old restaurant owner in Guam, in an interview with AFP. She described the difficult situation as she secured her business.

Guam is home to approximately 170,000 people, while the Northern Mariana Islands have a smaller population of 40,000. Both are U.S. territories.

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I can't afford to lose so many days. It's painful. Since I just started, all income now goes to rent, bills, staff, and supplies. I'm not even paying myself a salary yet.