Typhoon Mawar Leaves Guam Without Power and Water, but No Fatalities Reported

The U.S. Western Pacific territory of Guam experienced significant disruptions as Typhoon Mawar swept through the island, causing widespread power outages and water supply issues.

Despite the ferocious winds and heavy rainfall, Guam thankfully avoided any reported fatalities or major injuries. The local authorities have advised residents to boil their water as repair crews work to fix damaged generators and restore essential services.

Power Outages and Water Concerns:

Guam residents were left without electricity and water as Typhoon Mawar’s powerful 150-mile-per-hour winds downed power lines and trees across the island. The Guam Power Authority is working diligently to repair the damaged infrastructure, focusing first on critical facilities like hospitals and wastewater facilities before restoring power to homes and businesses.

As of the latest update, only 1,000 out of the island’s 52,000 households and commercial establishments remained without power. Meanwhile, the Guam Waterworks Authority has issued a boil water notice until further notice to ensure the safety of the water supply.

Minimal Casualties and Shelter Arrangements:

Remarkably, no fatalities or major injuries were reported among the 170,000 people residing on Guam. Around 980 individuals sought refuge in shelters set up across the island, according to Guam Homeland Security.

Governor Lou Leon Guerrero expressed relief and gratitude, assuring the population that the worst of the storm had passed and emphasizing their safety. Among the residents affected were approximately 10,000 U.S. military personnel stationed on Guam, who work at various bases and installations.

Impacts and Recovery Efforts:

Visuals shared on social media platforms displayed flooded streets, damaged trees, and debris scattered throughout front yards, highlighting the destructive force of Typhoon Mawar. The storm’s eye passed just north of Guam, moving at a sluggish pace of 8 mph and bringing heavy rainfall of up to 2 inches per hour overnight.

The U.S. National Weather Service (NWS) categorized Mawar as a Category 4 storm, the second-strongest on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind scale. After departing from the island and heading out to sea, the storm further intensified into a Super Typhoon with wind speeds reaching 155 mph.