Typhoon Sinlaku, near the island of Chuuk Lagoon in the Federated States of Micronesia Saturday, is predicted to start heading northwest over the weekend, gain strength and move towards the island of Guam.
"This storm is a serious threat to the island of Guam," AccuWeather international meteorologist Tyler Roys warned. "Sinlaku will produce destructive winds and flooding rainfall, likely leading to power outages and structural damage," Roys added.
The storm has a good chance to reach the equivalent of a Category 3 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale this weekend, and it could be near Category 4 strength as it passes near or just south of Guam early next week, Roys said.
When will the worst typhoon conditions hit Guam?
Conditions can begin deteriorating on Guam late Sunday, but the most dangerous period is likely to be Monday into Tuesday, when wind, rain and coastal impacts peak. Even if the track shifts a little north or south, Guam remains at risk for typhoon conditions. Small track changes will matter locally, but they will not eliminate the threat, Roys said.
