Super Typhoon Sinlaku is closing in on Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands after spending days lashing the Federated States of Micronesia, setting off emergency declarations and evacuation orders across the western Pacific. Forecasters expect the storm to pass near or over Guam as a Category 3 to 4 typhoon with sustained winds of 130 mph or greater and 15 to 20 inches of rainfall through April 15.
How the Storm Developed
Sinlaku formed as a tropical storm near Chuuk Lagoon on April 8, 2026, and then stalled over the region, dumping unrelenting rain and sending wind gusts up to 89 km/h (55 mph) across low-lying islands in the Federated States of Micronesia. On April 10, the system was upgraded to a typhoon — the first April typhoon in the western Pacific since 2022 — before rapidly intensifying into a super typhoon on April 11 as it tracked northwest toward the Marianas.
The National Weather Service has forecast a "60-hour storm event" for Guam and the CNMI, with the potential for destructive winds, storm surge, flash flooding, and mudslides across central and southern Guam.
Emergency Declarations and Preparations
Guam Governor Lou Leon Guerrero declared a State of Emergency and formally requested a pre-landfall Emergency Disaster declaration from President Trump to unlock federal resources. CNMI Governor David Apatang declared a State of Significant Emergency and ordered a territory-wide price freeze to prevent price gouging as residents stocked up on supplies. The Guam Legislature unanimously passed a $25 million emergency funding bill to support preparation and recovery.
By the afternoon of April 12, Joint Region Marianas had placed all military installations at Tropical Cyclone Condition of Readiness (TCCOR) 2, the Governor had elevated Guam to Condition of Readiness (COR) 2, and the Guam Department of Education opened seven emergency shelters at 4 p.m. Schools, courts, and non-essential GovGuam offices were closed as residents boarded up homes and cleared debris from yards.
Relief Organizations Mobilizing
American Red Cross has pre-positioned volunteers and relief supplies and is coordinating with its chapters across the Pacific to open and operate shelters, provide food, and support residents who evacuate ahead of landfall.
FEMA is staging emergency response resources and working with Guam and CNMI authorities to accelerate federal assistance as soon as a pre-landfall emergency declaration is granted.
The Salvation Army is readying mobile feeding units and emotional and spiritual care teams to deploy once it is safe to reach affected communities.
Team Rubicon is preparing veteran-led disaster response teams for deployment to assist with debris removal, damage assessments, and home repairs after the storm passes.
All Hands and Hearts is mobilizing volunteer teams to support long-term rebuilding efforts for homes, schools, and community infrastructure damaged by the typhoon.
How You Can Help
Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and communities across Micronesia face a dangerous storm with the potential for widespread damage to homes, power systems, and water infrastructure. Disaster relief organizations are pre-positioning resources now so they can respond the moment the storm moves through.
Visit the Typhoon Sinlaku disaster page to find trusted organizations accepting donations and learn more about how to help affected families. You can also browse the full organization directory to explore all groups currently responding to disasters worldwide.