Super Typhoon Champi passes just south of Guam

Super Typhoon Champi passed about 10 miles south of Merizo, on Guam’s southern end, early Sunday after strengthening to Category 4 intensity. Guam’s emergency management agency said the storm made its closest approach at about 4:26 a.m. local time. The National Weather Service kept typhoon warnings in effect for Guam and Rota as the system moved west-northwest away from the islands.

Champi carried sustained winds near 150 mph, according to the Associated Press. Authorities warned that tropical-storm-force winds, heavy rain and dangerous coastal conditions would persist after the eye moved away. Residents were told to remain indoors, public schools were closed for Monday inspections, and officials reported that roughly three quarters of Guam still had electricity shortly after the closest approach.

President Donald Trump approved an emergency declaration, allowing the Federal Emergency Management Agency to coordinate federal assistance. The declaration supports response operations; it is not a measure of final damage. Early power and facility reports can change as crews reach affected areas. The immediate priorities are restoring essential services, checking schools and hospitals, and keeping people away from hazardous surf while officials complete an island-wide assessment.