Guam Governor Orders Mandatory Evacuation of Coastal Areas as Typhoon Mawar Nears

Guam Gov Lou Leon Guerrero has issued a mandatory evacuation order for low-lying coastal areas ahead of the anticipated landfall of Typhoon Mawar in the US island territory.

In the executive order, Guerrero called on residents of prone areas, especially the villages of of Inalahan, Ipan, Talofofo, Malesso, Hagat, and Umatac, “to evacuate and seek shelter in private residences or designated government shelters in higher elevation no later than 6:00 pm, on May 23, 2023.”

On Monday, May 22, US President Joe Biden approved an emergency declaration and "ordered Federal assistance to supplement Commonwealth and local response efforts due to the emergency conditions resulting from Typhoon Mawar beginning on May 22, 2023, and continuing. "

Mawar strengthened into typhoon over the western Pacific Ocean between May 19 and 22, researchers said.

The Category 4 storm was expected to make landfall on Wednesday, local media reported. Credit: Office of the Governor of Guam via Storyful

Video transcript

LOU LEON GUERRERO: [CHAMORRO]. To the people of Guam, I have received a full update on Typhoon Mawar, and there are changes that you need to know now. Current forecasts are not favorable to our island, which we have been carefully tracking and preparing for.

According to our partners at The National Weather Service, winds have increased in intensity. We can now expect sustained winds of 125 miles per hour. Mawar is bordering a category-four typhoon with winds up to 150 miles per hour.

My greatest concern and worry is your safety. All residents in low-lying, flood-prone, and coastal areas, especially in the southern villages of Inalahan, Ipan, Talofofo, Malesso, Hagat, and Umatac are ordered to evacuate and seek shelter in private residences or designated government shelters in higher elevation no later than 6:00 tonight, Tuesday, May, 23rd.

Please take action now and evacuate in anticipation of strengthening winds and the likelihood of flooding. We must act now to ensure the protection of our people and your safety. Again, we are at the crosshairs of Typhoon Mawar. Take action now. Stay calm, stay informed, and stay safe.

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