Extreme weather
Gusts of over 300 km/h, canceled flights, closed schools. Almost 45,000 people are preparing for a storm – and Donald Trump is also reacting.
Apr 13, 2026, 12:24 p.mApr 13, 2026, 12:24 p.m
The authorities in the Northern Mariana Islands have declared the highest warning level due to the approaching super typhoon “Sinlaku”. Meteorologists expect gusts of more than 300 kilometers per hour in the US territory in the Pacific on Monday. US President Donald Trump declared a state of emergency in the area.
A super typhoon is a particularly strong and dangerous storm. The Northern Mariana Islands are located northeast of the Philippines. Since Monday afternoon (local time), typhoon warning level one has been in effect for the islands of Saipan, Tinian, Pagan, Alamagan and Rota. This means damaging winds are expected within twelve hours. Around 45,000 people are affected.
Most recently, “Sinlaku” was almost 500 kilometers southeast of Saipan and was moving northwest. Meteorologists expect the storm to pass close to the islands or hit them directly. The US territory of Guam, further south, is also preparing for possible impacts from the storm.
Sinlaku is one of the strongest storms of the season
The American research institute Cira, which deals with satellite meteorology, spoke of potentially “catastrophic weather conditions” for the Northern Mariana Islands. And experts also warn that even if the center of the typhoon does not move directly over land, there is a risk of damage from extreme winds, heavy rain and storm surges. “Sinlaku” is already one of the strongest storms of the current season.
Governor David Apatang ordered extensive protective measures. These include canceling flights and school closures. He also appealed to the public to complete final preparations: “If you live in a building that may not be able to withstand strong winds, please take proactive measures to seek safer shelter.”
If possible, people should avoid staying near the coast and only enter roads in absolute emergencies, said Apatang. He also warned drivers about the expected strong winds and poor visibility.
Trump’s emergency declaration activates aid from the US disaster protection agency FEMA.