SANTA RITA, Guam — In preparation for the arrival of Tropical Storm Saudel, the U.S. Coast Guard Captain of the Port Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam has set Port Heavy Weather Condition (PHWC) YANKEE for the Ports of Saipan and Tinian as of 8:00 p.m. CHsT, Aug. 20, 2026. The Port of Rota will remain in PHWC WHISKEY.
During heavy weather condition Yankee, sustained gale force winds (39-54 mph/34-47 knots) are expected within 24 hours.
In accordance with Title 33, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 160.111(c), the COTP hereby orders the following:
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Dead ships or vessels/barges unable to put to sea must have written authorization from the COTP to remain in port.
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All commercial vessels greater than or equal to 200 gross tons must evacuate the port unless in receipt of written COTP approval. No inbound vessel traffic is authorized.
Any vessel or facility operator desiring a COTP waiver from the above restrictions must submit a written request using the required application via email to preventionguam@uscg.mil. If you have questions or concerns, please call the Sector Guam Command Center at (671) 355-4824. For general questions concerning the storm’s predicted track, speed, or intensity, please contact the National Weather Service at 211 or (671) 472-0900.
The Coast Guard is advising the public of these important safety messages:
• Stay off the water. The Coast Guard’s search and rescue capabilities degrade as storm conditions strengthen. This means help could be delayed. Boaters should heed weather watches, warnings, and small craft advisories.
• Secure belongings. Trailerable boats should be pulled from the water and stored in a place not prone to flooding. Those who are leaving their boats in the water are reminded to double up all lines, update their beacon’s registration, and secure all devices safely to their vessel prior to a major storm. These devices often float free from vessels in marinas or at docks during storms and signal a distress when there is none. Ensure life rings, life jackets, paddlecraft, and small boats are secured. If not properly secured, these items can break free and require valuable search and rescue resources to be diverted to ensure people are not in distress.
• Stay clear of beaches. Wave heights and currents typically increase before a storm makes landfall. Even the best swimmers can fall victim to the strong waves and rip currents caused by tropical storms and typhoons. Swimmers should stay clear of beaches until local lifeguards and law enforcement officials say the water is safe.
• Stay informed. The public should monitor the progress and strength of the storm through local television, radio, and internet. Mariners should monitor VHF Channels 16 and 1022 (old channel 22A) for Broadcast Notice to Mariners, and also watch for Marine Safety Information Bulletins (MSIB) updates via email.
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