Governor Lou Leon Guerrero met with key officials early this morning at the Offices of Guam Homeland Security and Civil Defense (GHS/OCD) to discuss plans in place for any flood impacts for the island and to receive a brief update from the National Weather Service (NWS), Guam Weather Forecast Office, about what is expected.
According to Adelup, NWS advised that 2-3 inches of rain has already fallen each day and an additional 1-2 inches is possible today that may cause causing flooding and overflow.
As the monsoon trough continues across the Marianas, bringing heavy winds and rains, Adelup said partner agencies are working to mitigate the effects as much as possible.
The governor has already directed the Guam Army National Guard (GUNG) engineers from the 1224th Engineer Support Company to work closely with the Department of Public Works with road clearing assets and personnel to clear debris from storm drains and roadways as needed.
GHS/OCD, along with the Office of the Governor, is also working closely with the Mayors Council of Guam to identify flood-prone locations and stage proper equipment to mitigate flood impacts. Adelup said this is an ongoing effort as rain is expected throughout the rest of the week.
NWS is maintaining the flash flood watch in effect for Guam, Rota, Tinian, and Saipan through Wednesday night. Flash flooding could become life-threatening very quickly and there is a possibility for mudslides or landslides in torrential rain, especially in the south.
The Mayors Council of Guam has already reported flooding in the following areas: Santa Ana Ln., Asan; Nino Perdido St., Asan; Chalan Palsyo, across War Pacific Museum, Adelup; Dairy Rd., Mangilao; Assumption Rd., Piti; A. Quenga St., Piti; Mary ‘n Peling St., Piti; Masso River, Piti; Belen Avenue, going up to Inarajan Middle School; Pale Duenas, leading to Inarajan Swimming Pool; Old Ysrael Apartments; Malojloj Highway, across the former Poultry Farm; Umatac Bridge Area; Jose A. Quinata St., Umatac; San Dionisio St., across GWA Station and uphill towards Ft. Soledad, Umatac; Barcinas/Baza area, Merizo; Doma Cruz area, Merizo; Espinosa Avenue Bridge, Merizo; and Quinene Rd., Merizo
Residents and visitors are advised to take precautionary actions:
GHS/OCD is also reminding residents and visitors to practice extreme caution while traveling in rainy conditions, driving below the speed limit and allowing enough braking distance between vehicles. Avoid floodwaters and use alternate routes if flooding is encountered.
To report impassable roads, contact GHS/OCD at (671) 475-9600.
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