Typhoon Bavi forecast to reach super typhoon strength near Northern Marianas

Residents of U.S. territories in the western Pacific are preparing for Typhoon Bavi, which is forecast to become a super typhoon by Sunday night or early Monday when it reaches the Northern Mariana Islands. Bavi was located 760 miles east of Guam on Friday with maximum sustained winds of 80 mph. The storm is expected to reach maximum sustained winds of 150 mph or stronger before arrival.

April storm ongoing Power has not been fully restored in the Northern Mariana Islands after Typhoon Sinlaku struck in April. Some residents remain in tents after their homes were destroyed. A former lawmaker who works in the governor's office on Saipan said residents are preparing to face another major storm. He noted that the timing is difficult given the incomplete recovery.

Preparations underway across islands Residents on Guam and Saipan are covering windows with plywood and storing gasoline. Long lines formed at gas stations for weeks after the previous storm. A senior meteorologist with the National Weather Service on Guam said some residents hope Guam absorbs the strongest winds to spare the Northern Marianas.

Church workers on Guam are also preparing supplies. The assistant pastor of a Catholic church in Dededo, Guam, said typhoon preparedness has become more frequent. He expressed hope the storm will change course before landfall.