Urgent Relief Efforts: Responding to the Devastating Impact of Typhoon Mawar Across Affected Regions of the Marianas
The House of Chamorros is communicating with local emergency management officials, local partners on Guam and in the region, as well as other humanitarian agencies, to meet the needs of the communities affected. We are working to gather information to provide the best possible and most immediate assistance to support the Chamorro people and others most affected by Typhoon Mawar. As additional information and needs become clear, we will act and proceed accordingly. We are working to set up a Go Fund Me Account. However, if you would like to make a donation immediately, please feel free to do so via the following option (we ask that you simply provide the additional note in donation comments that you would like your donation to be provided in response to the Devastating Impact of Typhoon Mawar. Si Yu’os Ma’ase for your support.
Typhoon Mawar has heavily impacted the U.S. territory of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) with intense winds, flooding rain and a life-threatening storm surge.
Mawar is projected to be the largest, strongest storm to strike the region in two decades. Guam has a population of more than 150,000 people, many of whom live in coastal communities. Most of Guam is without power as sustained 140 mph winds whip across the island. Damage on Guam could be devastating. More than 40,000 homes built with lighter materials could see considerable damage. Electricity, water and communications (including internet services) may be unavailable for days and perhaps weeks after the storm passes.
Ways to Donate:
Until further notice, all donations made to the House of Chamorros will be directed towards relief efforts supporting those affected by Typhoon Mawar. Please donate today!
If you are looking for ideas on what to drop-off, we’ve been asking local representatives from the islands to provide the best idea of their needs. We appreciate anything and everything that can be provided to help.
Also please note the following:
- No personal packages.
- No Lithium Ion Batteries. (power Tool batteries like Ryobi, Dewalt, Milwaukee batteries not allowed)
- No Hazardous Chemicals (Cleaning solutions)
- The only liquid in the container should be Bottled Water
- Flashlights,
- Battery Lanterns,
- Personal Hygiene Products,
- Batteries,
- Wipes,
- Water,
- Candles,
- Trash Bags,
- Diapers,
- Toiletries.
- Water Containers
- Water Filters
- Portable Solar Panels
- Tarps (For temporary roofing)
- Gardening Tools
- Head Lamps
- Gas Tanks
**We will continue to update this list as information is received from island officials and initial surveys/assessments.
Current Available Updates:
Last Updated: 05/29/2023 9:11 AM PST
Guam is currently in COR 4; JRM in TCCOr 1R as of 5PM; Response Efforts Underway
Boil Water Notice:
The Guam Waterworks Authority (GWA) is advising customers to conserve water and has issued a boil water notice due to possible bacterial contamination in the water that can occur when increased run-off enters a drinking water source following heavy rains. GWA will perform assessments of its water system to be within acceptable levels as soon as possible. Villages experiencing water outages at this time: Tamuning, Nimitz Hill, Hågat, Santa Rita, Yona, Talo’fo’fo, Ipan, Yigo, and Malojloj.
Emergency Assistance:
ARC Emergency Assistance Items:
The American Red Cross (ARC), working alongside village mayors and faith-based organizations, is providing emergency assistance items to residents that have been displaced, or whose homes were destroyed, due to Typhoon Mawar. The following items are made available to those in need:
- Tarp
- Flashlight
- Cooler
- Clean-up kits: squeegee, push brooms, brush, work gloves, latex gloves, bleach, trash bags, sponge
- Bucket
Emergency assistance supplies are available for residents whose homes were destroyed as a result of Typhoon Mawar, meaning a total loss of structure, the structure is not economically feasible to repair, or complete failure to major structural components (e.g., the collapse of basement walls/foundation, walls or roof).
Points of Distribution for today (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) are as follows:
- Sinajana Mayor’s Office
- Hågat Mayor’s Office
- Jeromy Newby Community Youth Center, Talo’fo’fo
- Yigo Gym, Yigo
The American Red Cross continues to provide two (2) meals a day to shelterees within the identified four (4) Government of Guam emergency shelters.
Those wishing to volunteer can visit the American Red Cross Relief site at the main office at the Hilton Guam Resort and Spa. Volunteers are asked to present a valid ID for registration purposes. Contact Mary Findley at 1-800-733-2767 for more information.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), along with other federal and local partners, have announced that Guam Community College (GCC) will serve as the first Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in response to typhoon recovery efforts. FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) are accessible facilities and mobile offices you can visit to learn more about FEMA and other disaster assistance programs.
GCC Building E will host the soft opening of the Disaster Recovery Center from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. tomorrow, June 3, 2023. The DRC will be open to assist island residents impacted by Typhoon Mawar with disaster relief programs. After Saturday, regular hours of operations will be seven days a week from 7 am –7 pm. Please be advised that the Guam Police Department will be conducting crowd control and traffic direction within the GCC parking lot. Additional centers will be announced soon to support the needs of the community.
A DRC may be able to help you:
- Apply for FEMA Assistance online
- Learn more about disaster assistance programs
- Learn the status of your FEMA application
- Understand any letters you get from FEMA
- Find housing and rental assistance information
- Get answers to questions or resolve problems
- Get referrals to agencies that may offer other assistance
- Learn about Small Business Administration (SBA) programs
Please have the following available when you arrive:
- Valid form of identification: Driver’s license, Guam ID or Passport
- Proof of home address (i.e. utility bill, rental agreement, etc.)
- Condition of your damaged home
- Insurance information, if available
- Social Security card or number
- Best contact number
- Mailing address or email address
Guam homeowners and renters who were affected by Typhoon Mawar can register with FEMA by calling 1-800-621-3362, visiting disasterassistance.gov or downloading the application on the FEMA App. For more information about registration, processing and FEMA’s Individual Assistance Programs, visit fema.gov.
When you apply for assistance, have the following information ready:
- A current phone number
- Address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying
- Social Security number
- List of damage and losses
- Banking information if you choose direct deposit
- If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name
Survivors may be eligible to receive assistance for uninsured and underinsured damage and losses resulting from Typhoon Mawar. If you have homeowners, renters or flood insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.
Disaster assistance may include financial help with temporary lodging and home repairs, as well as other disaster-related expenses.
To date, nearly 6,800 Guam residents have applied for disaster assistance.
Current Advisories:
The National Weather Service (NWS) Guam Weather Forecast Office maintains a flood watch, in effect for Guam through late Sunday night. Flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible.
Residents and visitors are advised to take the following precautionary actions:
- If driving, be alert for low visibilities and slippery roads in heavy rain;
- Slow down where water is ponding on the road;
- Turn Around, Don’t Drown. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters. Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and 2 feet of water can sweep your vehicle away;
- Do not camp, park, or hike along streams and rivers. These areas can floodquickly and with little warning.
Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone areas. A wet pattern looks to continue through the weekend, with at least a few opportunities for locally heavy rainfall.
The Offices of Guam Homeland Security and Civil Defense (GHS/OCD) remind the community to practice caution while traveling in rainy conditions, driving below the speed limit and allowing enough braking distance between vehicles.
Visit the following links for the latest advisory information:
- NWS Website: https://www.weather.gov/gum/
- NWS Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NWSGuam/
- GHS/OCD Website: https://ghs.guam.gov/
- GHS/OCD Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GHSOCD/
- A small craft advisory is in effect for Guam, Rota, Tinian, and Saipan coastal waters until 6 a.m. Sunday. In the wake of Typhoon Maria, winds up to 25 knots and seas of 10 feet or more will persist through Saturday night. These hazardous conditions are mainly expected in the waters west of the islands. Inexperienced mariners, especially those operating smaller vessels, should avoid sailing in these conditions.
- A high surf advisory for Guam, Rota, Tinian, and Saipan west facing reefs, is in effect through Sunday night. Hazardous surf of 8 to 10 feet and life-threatening rip currents along west facing reefs are expected through Saturday. Avoid venturing near reef lines and beaches, especially those facing west. Large breaking waves can knock you down and cause serious injuries. If caught in a rip current, swim parallel to shore and back toward the beach when possible. Do not swim directly against a rip current.
The Guam Fire Department (GFD) reminds our community to refrain from burning debris. Low water supply throughout the island will challenge the response to extinguishing fires. Residents are urged to call their respective village mayor’s office for guidance on disposing of debris and to call the Guam Fire Department to report unauthorized burning.
Do Not Wait to Clean:
The Joint Information Center reminds the community to document any photos and videos of your property before and after a disaster strikes. After photos are taken, immediately begin cleaning and making repairs to their homes to make them safe and livable again. Do not wait for public officials to come to your home.
Road Safety for Traffic Control Point:
The Guam Police Department, and other local Law Enforcement Officers and Soldiers with the Guam National Guard continue to maintain traffic flow within our heavily congested intersections. As a reminder to the community, a vehicle approaching a traffic light at any intersection unmanned without a working light should come to a complete stop.
When approaching a manned intersection, it is advised to proceed with caution and be prepared to stop. With heavy rains and minimal lighting, our officers and guardsmen operate with highlighted vests to assist in increasing their visibility for all motorists. Motorists are asked to adhere to all rules and regulations pertaining to Guam Law Title 16.
Agency & General Updates:
The respective village Mayors have been out helping their village constituents throughout the duration of the typhoon. The mayors will continue to work with the Guam Environmental Protection Agency (Guam EPA) to establish staging centers for storm waste collection to include metals, white goods, plastics, and green waste.
GPA Update:
The Guam Power Authority (GPA) continues its restoration and post-typhoon recovery efforts. GPA reports that as of 1 p.m.:
- 41.5.% of the System Load (Customer Demand) has been restored.
- 95.8% of GPA’s Substation Energization has been restored.
- 77.8% of GPA’s feeders/ circuits have been energized/restored.
GPA notes that feeders and circuits may be energized only if GPA’s substations are energized and that system load will increase once feeders and circuits are energized.
Five (5) additional feeders/circuits were added to the island-wide system for a total of 49 feeders/circuits that are partially energized today. A total of 23 critical substations were energized of the 24 total major GPA substations. Umatac substation restoration is in process.
Current generation capacity is 111MW of capacity online supporting a 83MW load. Baseload unit Piti #8 to be online today (44MW).
Customers can contact GPA’s 24-Hour Trouble Dispatch at 475-1472/3/4 or via direct message on GPA’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/GuamPowerAuthority.
Issues Special Beach Advisory:
STAY OUT OF THE WATER! The Guam Environmental Protection Agency (Guam EPA) has issued a special beach advisory for all 43 beaches which is attributed to the large amount of rain received from Typhoon Mawar. Guam EPA monitoring personnel conducted visual inspections of all 43 recreational beaches and recommended that all beaches be placed under advisory until further notice. Stormwater runoff, pooled water, or areas of flooding may contain high concentrations of unsafe bacteria
Recreational activities at unsafe beaches may result in minor illnesses such as sore throats or diarrhea. Activities might also result in more serious illnesses such as meningitis, encephalitis, or severe gastroenteritis. Children, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems have a greater chance of getting sick when they come in contact with contaminated water.
GWA Update:
The Guam Waterworks Authority (GWA) provides this Water System Status update:
Northern:
- GWA northern water system is operating normally.
- 53% of operable wells are online.
- The areas south of the Anderson back gate now have water service.
- GWA continues to operate all available wells to increase reservoir levels throughout the northern system until reservoir levels can be increased.
Central:
- GWA resources and Navy-supplied sources continue to supply Santa Rita and Agat, except in the higher elevation areas of Umang and Santa Ana.
- Service on Cross-Island Road area up to Our Lady of Peace is restored.
- The Sinafa area and higher elevations of Santa Rita on Cross-Island Road remain without water.
- Talo’fo’fo main village has been restored but remains susceptible to outages as reservoir levels drop during high demand. Crews continue to monitor the system.
- Tumon, Tamuning, Chalan Pago, and Sinajana will continue to experience intermittent service disruption during peak demand times.
- Most of Mangilao remains without water service.
Southern:
- GWA’s southern water system is being operated at reduced capacity due to damaged control equipment at the Ugum Surface Water Treatment Plant.
- Water services are restored from Ipan to Umatac, however, higher areas in Umatac have no water until operators can build up water levels in the 1-million-gallon Umatac Sub Reservoir.
- Residents in Yona in extreme high elevations are without water.
- Ten (10) – 6,000 gallon Flexible Potable Water Tanks (FPWT):
North
- Dededo Mayor’s Office, Dededo
- Yigo Gym, Yigo
- Astumbo Fire Station (moved from Chalan Palauan)
- Mount Santa Rosa, Yigo
- Y-15 Well Site (across Upi Elementary), Yigo
Central
- Santa Teresita, Mangilao
- Shop 4 Less parking lot, Maite
South
- Memorial Park entrance (moved from Humåtak Mayor’s Office), Humåtak
- Malesso’ Pier
- Malojloj Old Mayor’s Office, Inalåhan
Five (5) additional flex tanks deployments are pending additional containers/chassis. The water tanks listed above are accessible 24 hours a day/7 days a week at this time. Once the tanks are depleted, they will be refilled and returned to service at locations still without water. Residents island-wide who have water service are advised to conserve and limit use for cleaning, bathing, and cooking in order to conserve water to allow reservoir levels to increase.
A precautionary boil water notice remains in place. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, and food preparation until further notice.
Residents island-wide, who have water service, are asked to limit use for cleaning, bathing, and cooking in order to conserve water to allow reservoir levels to increase.
For information, contact GWA’s 24/7 phone line at (671) 646-4211 or go to www.facebook.com/guamwaterworksauthority.
- The Guam Regional Transit Authority (GRTA) public transit services are operational Monday through Saturday, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. The GRTA paratransit services are operational Monday through Saturday, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
GSWA Update:
The Guam Solid Waste Authority (GSWA) continues trash collection services following Typhoon Mawar and is providing an update to customers and residents regarding delays in services.
GSWA asks for everyone’s patience and understanding during this challenging time as dedicated staff continue to put their utmost effort to provide service to all residents in single-family homes and apartments with four units or less, including those who are not registered customers of GSWA, and are working diligently to address the increased waste volumes, blocked roads, and operational challenges. This significant increase in waste requires additional time and resources to ensure proper disposal.
GSWA is in the process of completing previously delayed routes, which is expected to be finished by the end of today, June 2, 2023. Furthermore, residents who are normally serviced on Thursday will be serviced on Saturday, June 3, 2023. GSWA requests everyone’s cooperation in leaving their trash curbside if it has not yet been collected. The GSWA team is working tirelessly to address all pending collections as quickly and efficiently as possible.
For further updates, please visit our website at gswa.guam.gov or contact customer service at 671-646-3111 or email customerservice@gswa.guam.gov
GTA is actively working 24/7 on post-typhoon restoration. The core network is operational with stable off-island internet, but there are outages in wireless services in certain areas. Priority is given to larger sites serving residential and business customers. GTA is also prioritizing restoration to public safety and health facilities. However, the lack of island power and fuel shortages are causing some challenges for the restoration process.
To support customers, GTA is waiving disconnection fees and freezing disconnections until further notice.
Updated operating hours are Micronesia Mall (10AM-6PM) and GTA Support Center (7AM-7PM), while the GTA Experience Center and retail locations remain closed. For assistance, please contact the support center at 671-644-4482, visit www.gta.net, or email ask@gta.net.
DPHSS Update:
The Department of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS) Northern Regional Community Health Center (CHC) and Pharmacy in Dededo and Southern CHC in Inalahan will be closed until further notice. Patients will be contacted for rescheduling.
DPHSS released a listing of active merchant accounts to assist clients under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) from the period of May 25, 2023 through May 27, 2023. Availability of merchants to process SNAP-EBT purchases ultimately depends on the merchant’s access to both power and a connection to the internet.
For more information, call the Bureau of Economic Services Administrator Ms. Christine San Nicolas at (671) 488-6839 or email at christine.sannicolas@dphss.guam.gov.
The Guam Fire Department (GFD) emergency response personnel responded to as many calls as they safely could throughout the duration of the storm. NextGen 911 also fared well throughout the storm.
GPD Services:
The Guam Police Department (GPD) Community Service Counters within the ITC and Hakubutan Building will remain closed until adequate power and water is restored. Community services include the Records and ID Section, Recreational Boating and Safety and the Armory. Upon full restoration, GPD will provide operational hours to the community.
Guam Police Department Police Clearance Update:
Although the Guam Police Department’s Records and ID Section remains closed, for those needing Police Clearance can obtain it at the Central Precinct Command in Sinajana, beginning Thursday, June 1, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Please be advised that times are subject to change and cash payments will only be accepted during modified hours.
As the island moves into COR 4, the Guam Police Department reminds motorists to adhere to the road conditions and to proceed with caution while approaching major traffic intersections. Starting Friday morning, traffic direction will be provided to all major intersections to aid with the safe movement of traffic flow.
Guam Airport to open regular flight operations:
After working around the clock to address the impacts to the airport terminal building, equipment,
and operations by Typhoon Mawar, the Guam International Airport Authority on May 29, 2023 at 3:00 p.m.
The Airport has phased in to normal operations with a restricted opening for humanitarian and
essential cargo flights on May 25, 2023, bringing much needed supplies and emergency personnel
to Guam. These operations will continue for typhoon recovery efforts.
Airlines are anticipated to file their flight plans with the GIAA to begin flight operations and to bring
their regularly scheduled operations online. Passengers are advised to contact their airlines directly
for flight status and rescheduling their flights. Below are contact numbers for our airline partners:
United Airlines Tel: +1(800) 864-8331 Fax: (671) 649 6588 Cargo: (671) 645-8570 | Jin Air Co. Ltd. Tel: 1(671)642-2800 Fax: 1(671)642-2801 Website: www.jinair.com Email gumkk@jinair.com | Jeju Air Co.LTD Tel: 1(671)649-3936 Tel: +82.1599.1500 (Automated Menu) |
Korean Air Telephone: 1(671)642-3200 Admin/Sales 1(671)642-1125/6 Cargo: 1(671)642-5333 | Philippine Airlines General Sales Agents for PAL (Ticketing) 1(671)632-1615 Email: gumkzpr@pal.com.ph | T’way Air Co.LTD Tel: 1(671)989-1500 Website: www.twayair.com Email: gumkk@twayair.com |
Matson Update:
Matson announced it will contribute $350,000 in transportation and in-kind services toward disaster relief in Guam, Micronesia and the CNMI, and expects to begin delivering relief supplies on voyage Manukai 237, scheduled to arrive on Tuesday, June 6. Matson’s vessel, Maunawili, arrived on May 28 following the reopening of the Port of Guam and discharged 454 containers of general goods.
Matson is working with FEMA and the American Red Cross to facilitate shipments of relief supplies to Guam for the recovery process in the coming weeks and months. For detailed service schedules visit Matson.com.
To help support recovery efforts at the A.B. Won Pat International Airport Guam and the tourism industry, the Guam Visitors Bureau (GVB) and Guam Hotel & Restaurant Association (GHRA) have reached out to hotels, tour agents, taxis and other industry partners to communicate the flight operations impacted by the airport’s flooded areas, as well as damages to some hotels caused by Typhoon Mawar. Messaging has reached all of Guam’s main visitor markets. GVB has also pushed the added assistance of its visitor concierge program for those that speak Japanese, Korean and Mandarin Chinese. The concierge service hotline is (671) 588-3030.
The first priority in the terminal building is safely removing water in flooded areas to get the airport’s equipment back online. The GIAA team is assessing the airfield for operational capabilities. The airport will be meeting with airlines and stakeholders to update them on terminal status and information on their operational plans.
Korean Air has announced the following flight cancellations:
KE 423/424 Incheon/Guam/Incheon canceled for May 24 and 25
KE 421/422 Incheon/Guam/Incheon canceled for May 25
KE 423/424 Incheon/Guam Incheon canceled for May 25 and May 26
Until the terminal is up for operations, we ask passengers to stay at their hotels and homes as passenger amenities are limited at this time. Travelers can contact their respective airlines for any change in flight status or by going to the GIAA website at www.guamairport.com/flights.
- Three (3) shelters remain open in Guam with an overnight population of more than 697.
- Tankers with liquefied petroleum gas and jet fuel are offshore, to be offloaded to help with increased fuel demand throughout Guam.
The Judiciary of Guam remains closed until an assessment of the court’s power and the generators have been completed. Essential staff will report to address the situation. All hearings and court proceedings remain canceled and will be rescheduled. Upon reopening, the Judiciary will prioritize matters that require immediate attention.
The Guam Police Department and the Guam National Guard are being positioned at major intersections and motorists are advised to please proceed with caution.
As of 5 p.m. Thursday, Governor Lou Leon Guerrero placed the island in Condition of Readiness (COR). All essential and critical Government of Guam employees are to report to the worksite to assess for damages. All others are to report to their supervisors. For agencies whose payroll is processed by the Department of Administration, payroll data was transmitted earlier this week.
The Fresenius Dialysis Centers at Sinajana and Tamuning (East Agana) locations are open today. The last treatment is at 8 pm and services will close at 12 am. Services will continue at 6 am on Saturday, May 27.
Bank of Guam: ATMs and online banking are currently unavailable. Merchant services are up and running. The use of debit and credit cards is encouraged when possible. Yigo Branch is open for cash-only withdrawals limited to $250 per customer.
First Hawaiian Bank: Maite branch is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, May 26, 2023. Dededo and Tamuning branches remain closed. Customers can continue to access their accounts via FHB Online or the FHB Mobile App. Monitor updates at FHB.com. All branches will be closed on May 29, 2023, in observance of Memorial Day.
Bank of Hawaii: All branches are currently closed until further assessments are made. The following ATMs are online: Agana Shopping Center, Hagatna Branch Lobby, Payless Dededo, Outrigger Hotel, Hotel Nikko Guam, Onward Beach Hotel, Tsubaki Tower, Micronesia Mall North, Micronesia Mall East, AAFB Magellan Restaurant, and Harmon Branch.
Bank Pacific
The Hagåtña branch opens on Saturday, May 27, 2023, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Coast360 Federal Credit Union: The Coast360 Maite Member Center reopened Friday, May 26, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. Dededo and Tamuning Centers remain closed until further notice. Some ATMs, online banking and card services are currently offline until further notice. The following ATMs are online: Maite Member Center (walk-up and drive-up), Tamuning Member Center, Shell (Upper Tumon, Yigo), 76/Circle K (Dededo), Hafa Adai Mart (Yigo), Micronesia Mall (food court and Payless), and Agaña Shopping Center.
Navy Federal Credit Union
All branches are currently closed until further notice. The following ATMs are online: Landmark Center (Tamuning), United States Naval Hospital Guam, and Guam Main Navy Exchange.
The Attorney General of Guam (AGO) reminds the public that during times of emergency Guam law requires the following from merchants and landlords:
- Price Gouging Prohibited: merchants & landlords cannot increase the price of goods in advance of a possible disaster (i.e. tropical storm/typhoon)
- Upon declaration of COR 2, all prices of wholesale and retail goods shall be frozen and shall be frozen until 72 hours after the declaration of COR 4 (5 GCA § 32201(c)(21)(E)
- Rent can be frozen up to 120 days after a disaster upon executive order of the governor
Penalties to violators shall include:
- 3 times the gross profits or 5 times the amount of overcharges, whichever is greater
The AGO trusts that the business community and all merchants will not take advantage of people in our time of need. The AGO is prepared to receive complaints. Complaints can be made by visiting the AGO website at oagguam.org, clicking on the “action message” on the home page, or by emailing publicservice@oagguam.org.
Port Authority of Guam Update:
Port Authority of Guam (PAG) operations will resume today and will offload a Matson container ship. Yesterday, the PAG terminal yard was completely cleaned up. PAG confirmed that Gantry 5 is operational after addressing damage to conduits and its circuit board. Gantry 4 and Gantry 6 have issues with their computer boards and are currently being serviced.
As of 10:30 a.m. today, the U.S. Coast Guard issued the all-clear to open from the waterway perspective while PAG immediately issued the all-clear from the dockside. PAG has received notice of arrivals for two vessels and is ready to service those vessels. Additionally, Guam Customs and Quarantine officers are ready for operations. Matson was scheduled to arrive at noon today, with APL to dock once discharge of Matson’s Maunawili is completed. Matson’s Manoa and Papa Mau are also scheduled to arrive May 30, 2023.
Central operations and school sites are closed for services. Employees have reported in to assess damages and certain schools are still being utilized as emergency shelters. Also, DOE announced that the Guam Education Board (GEB) meeting scheduled for Tuesday, May 30, 2023, has been canceled until further notice.
PAG continues assessments on their wharves, docks, cranes, and facilities. PAG’s dive team will conduct underwater assessments of the docks tomorrow, which is key to the Port’s ability to reopen. Apra Harbor remains closed as the USCG has restricted water entry into the Harbor until further notice. PAG’s operations team continues to address all concerns within the terminal yard to allow vessel entry to the Port and the discharge of cargo as soon as possible.
All parks and recreational areas are closed until further notice. DPR is conducting damage assessments. Residents are encouraged to stay away from all parks and recreational areas until all safety concerns are addressed. Lifeguards are not on duty.
PAG continues assessments on their wharves, docks, cranes, and facilities. PAG’s dive team will conduct underwater assessments of the docks tomorrow, which is key to the Port’s ability to reopen. Apra Harbor remains closed as the USCG has restricted water entry into the Harbor until further notice. PAG’s operations team continues to address all concerns within the terminal yard to allow vessel entry to the Port and the discharge of cargo as soon as possible.
DPW Update:
The Department of Public Works (DPW) Highway Maintenance Construction Section (MCS) has been working pre-typhoon ensuring the roadways remain accessible for emergency responders and essential government workers. Work was focused at the following sites pre-storm, that have been prone to flooding and heavy vegetation foliage:
- Polaris Outfall Southbound, Piti
- Finile Drive, Hågat
- RR Cruz Subdivison, Hågat
- Barcinas Manel Channel and Culverts, Malesso’
- Patpuguan Bridge, Malesso’
- Routed Roads (1, 4, 2, 10, 16, 15, 3, 9) – Island-wide
- Storm Drainage Grills – Island-wide
- Line Ditch Swells Along Rt. 11
- Rt. 16, Maina Line Ditch
Upon the passage of Typhoon Mawar and at first daylight, crews from DPW’S MCS continued efforts in clearance of debris on major roadways which allowed the quick response from the Government of Guam and counterparts from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to conduct damage assessments. The following sites were:
- Rt. 4, Malesso’
- Rt. 4, Chalan Pago
- Pago Bay, Rt. 4
- Rt. 4, Yona
- Rt. 4, Ipan Talo’fo’fo
- Rt. 4A, Talo’fo’fo
- Layon Landfill, Inalåhan
- Rt. 2, Hågat
- Rt. 2A, Hågat-Humåtac
- Rt. 17, Santa Rita-Sumai
- Portions of Rt. 5 and 17m, Santa Rita-Sumai
- Rt. 1 – Upper Tumon
- Rt. 1 – East and West Hagåtna
- Daok Strip, Hagåtna
- Rt. 4, Sinajana to Ordot
- Rt. 15, from Mangilao to Perez Acres, Yigo
- Rt. 6, Maina
- Snake Road to Nav Hospital, Maina
- Rt. 15, Mangilao
- Rt. 8, Maite Plumeria Hotel
- Rt. 1 Dededo Micro Mall to Rt. 1 Yigo
- Rt. 15 from Carnation up to Upi Elementary School, Yigo
- Rt. 27, Macheche to Late Heights, Dededo and Mangilao
- Rt. 29, Gayinero to Rt. 3 and Rt. 9, Yigo
- Supported GWA – Access to 20+ Well sites island-wide.
As the island moves towards recovery, DPW crews continue to work removing debris throughout the island.
The Guam Memorial Hospital regained power and utility service and remains operational.
Green Waste Disposal Updates – Barrigada, Dededo and Santa Rita:
The Government of Guam’s green waste transition sites are open for residential green waste disposal. Each site is operational 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., 7 days a week. These sites will accept only green waste, vegetative waste, and yard trimmings. All other disaster debris including, but not limited to metallic waste, white goods, bulky household waste, household hazardous waste, and household trash will be REJECTED. Residents are advised that site locations are subject to change based on capacity.
For Residents of: | Sponsor | Site Location |
Hagåtña | GPA | Agana Pool Area |
Agana Heights | Mayor | Old Skate Park |
Hågat | Mayor | Mayor’s Office |
Assan-Ma’ina | Mayor | Old Baseball field |
Update: Barrigada | Mayor | Tiyan Carnival Grounds (Former COVID-19 Testing Site) |
Update: Dededo | Mayor | Astumbo Park |
Humåtak | Mayor | Mayor’s Office |
Inalåhan | Mayor | Baseball Field New |
Malesso’ | DPW | GWA Water Tank Area by Baseball Field |
Mangilao | Mayor | BIll Muna Baseball field parking lot |
Mongmong-Toto-Maite | Mayor | Next to Toto Baseball Field |
Chalan Pago-Ordot | Mayor | Public Easement across Mayor’s Office |
Piti | DPW/Mayor | Across Church |
Update Sånta Rita-Sumai | Mayor | Beside Mayor’s Office |
Sinajana | Mayor | Baseball field |
Talo’fo’fo | Mayor | DYA Cottage Home on Vicente Castro Street |
Tamuning-Tumon-Harmon | Mayor | Ypao Point – Right side behind Archbishop Circle |
Yigo | Mayor | U.O.G. Northern Farm, Wusstig Road Yigo |
Yona | Mayor | Baseball field on Jose B. Sudo Street |
Docomo Pacific has been working with its technology crews to make island-wide assessments in Guam, Saipan, Tinian and Rota since Typhoon Mawar.
For Guam customers, the majority of cell sites did not suffer major damage due to Typhoon Mawar. The primary issue at this time is getting island power restored to the sites. Docomo Pacific is working closely with Guam Power Authority to restore services. Generators have been deployed at strategic sites to maximize coverage, and to ensure a stable power supply for as many mobile sites as possible.
The fiber network for southern villages supporting several mobile cell sites has sustained storm damage. This means that even if these sites were powered with a portable generator, there is no mobile service connectivity at this time. This is on the list of high priorities, along with restoration to public safety and health care facilities. No disconnections were announced until further notice, as well as no data caps for all mobile data customers and load-free prepaid service.
IT&E is working around the clock to restore services. Generators have been deployed to undamaged cell sites that can be accessed safely and that have connectivity to the network. Southern cell sites suffered significant damage from the typhoon. IT&E is unable to provide a timeline for restoration at this time, but is working to deploy a solution.
All prepaid subscribers get unlimited service, regardless of prepaid plan. Data caps have been lifted for all postpaid subscribers and tethering is available for all postpaid subscribers, free of charge. Service suspension due to nonpayment is postponed until further notice.
For the latest service updates, subscribers are encouraged to check IT&E’s official social media pages. Service-related issues can be reported by calling (671) 922-4483 or sending a direct message on official social media pages.
Visit the following links for the latest advisory information:
- GHS/OCD Website: https://ghs.guam.gov/
- GHS/OCD Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GHSOCD/
- JRM Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jrmguam
For more information, contact the Joint Information Center at (671) 478-0208/09/10.
The Guam Community College (GCC) is closed to the public this week, May 30 – June 3 as employees assess and prepare for reopening at a later date. For questions contact (671) 482-4320.
All prepaid subscribers get unlimited service, regardless of prepaid plan. Data caps have been lifted for all postpaid subscribers and tethering is available for all postpaid subscribers, free of charge. Service suspension due to nonpayment is postponed until further notice.
For the latest service updates, subscribers are encouraged to check IT&E’s official social media pages. Service-related issues can be reported by calling (671) 922-4483 or sending a direct message on official social media pages.
Visit the following links for the latest advisory information:
- GHS/OCD Website: https://ghs.guam.gov/
- GHS/OCD Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GHSOCD/
- JRM Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jrmguam
For more information, contact the Joint Information Center at (671) 478-0208/09/10.
The University of Guam (UOG) Finakpo’ Summer Session A will be postponed until June 13, 2023. For more information, contact Admissions at admitme@triton.uog.edu.
All prepaid subscribers get unlimited service, regardless of prepaid plan. Data caps have been lifted for all postpaid subscribers and tethering is available for all postpaid subscribers, free of charge. Service suspension due to nonpayment is postponed until further notice.
For the latest service updates, subscribers are encouraged to check IT&E’s official social media pages. Service-related issues can be reported by calling (671) 922-4483 or sending a direct message on official social media pages.
Visit the following links for the latest advisory information:
- GHS/OCD Website: https://ghs.guam.gov/
- GHS/OCD Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GHSOCD/
- JRM Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jrmguam
For more information, contact the Joint Information Center at (671) 478-0208/09/10.
This week, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR), deployed disaster response personnel from the National Disaster Medical System (NDMS) to Guam to address the health impacts of Typhoon Mawar.
HHS deployed over 48 NDMS Health and Medical Task Force (HMTF) and Incident Management Team (IMT) personnel to support emergency response efforts. Two HMTF teams are providing medical support to Guam Memorial Hospital in Tamuning and Guam Regional Medical City in Dededo, while IMT members are managing operations, planning, and logistics on the ground. NDMS and IMT personnel, both part of ASPR, are working with FEMA, ASPR Regional Emergency Coordinators, territorial health authorities, and emergency response officials to determine if any additional federal public health and medical resources may be needed to aid in responding to Typhoon Mawar.
HHS’ Disaster Distress Helpline, sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) at 1-800-985-5990, can provide immediate counseling to anyone affected by Typhoon Mawar. Callers can connect with counselors in over 100 languages; a videophone option is available to support the deaf or hard-of-hearing.
Additional information about HHS response to Typhoon Mawar can be found at https://aspr.hhs.gov.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is encouraging local sponsors to submit project requests for funding through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) administers the Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) Program which responds to emergencies created by natural disasters. It is not necessary for a national emergency to be declared for an area to be eligible for assistance.
The EWP Program is a recovery effort aimed at relieving imminent hazards to life and property caused by floods, fires, windstorms, and other natural disasters. All projects must have a project sponsor. NRCS may bear up to 75 percent of the eligible construction cost of emergency measures (90 percent within limited-resource areas as identified by the U.S. Census data). The remaining costs must come from local sources and can be in the form of cash or in-kind services. EWP is designed for installation of recovery measures to safeguard life and property as a result of a natural disaster. Threats that the EWP Program addresses are termed watershed impairments. These include, but are not limited to:
- debris-clogged waterways,
- unstable streambanks,
- severe erosion jeopardizing public infrastructure,
- wind-borne debris removal, and
- damaged upland sites stripped of protective vegetation by fire or drought.
Funding is available for new projects as well as those already submitted to NRCS. NRCS will give additional consideration to projects in historically underserved communities that directly benefit limited resource areas or socially disadvantaged communities. NRCS will continue to review as funding is available.
Eligible project sponsors include state government entities, local municipalities, conservation districts, and federally-recognized tribal organizations. Sponsors are encouraged to reach out to their local District Conservationist see contact information above and/or their state’s/territorial NRCS Watershed Program Manager John Mathews John.mathews@usda.gov or (808) 600-2922 with watershed concerns as soon as possible to ensure their project request is in the funding queue for consideration.
Guam Cancer Care will remain open and accessible for all cancer patients in need of direct support services. These services include but are not limited to: transportation to treatment, patient supplies and pharmaceutical drugs prescribed to them for treatment.
Cancer patients are urged to contact Guam Cancer Care navigators at (671) 929-7207 and (671) 687-0189 to make arrangements to avail of the services offered. Guam Cancer Care navigators will be temporarily housed at varying cancer clinics that remain open to provide the needed cancer treatment to those battling cancer on Guam. The Guam Cancer Care office remains closed at this time until facility communications and utilities are restored.
Guam residents afflicted by cancer are encouraged to contact Guam Cancer Care’s navigators at (671) 929-7207 and (671) 687-0189 to make special arrangements to receive direct support services. For further information regarding Guam Cancer Care’s programs, please contact their office at (671) 929-7207 or (671) 687-0189 or visit them at their website at www.guamcancercare.org.
Pursuant to the Guam Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan, the Bureau of Statistics and Plans (BSP) conducted a Business Sector Disaster Damage Assessment (BSDDA) of Guam’s business/commercial following the passage of Typhoon Mawar. BSP, along with representatives from the Guam Visitors Bureau, Department of Land Management, Guam Economic Development Authority, Department of Chamorro Affairs and the Port Authority of Guam conducted the BSDDA on May 26-27 and May 30-31, 2023.
A sample of business establishments were surveyed for damages to building structure, equipment and merchandise. The total dollar damage loss estimate reported by Guam’s commercial sector is $111,791,358 and is specified as follows: $65,010,843 for building damage, $38,378,325 for equipment damage and $8,402,190 for merchandise damage.
A total of 433 businesses were visited including 15 hotels. Of the 434 businesses visited, 231 or 53% of the businesses reported damages (191 provided cost damage estimates and 40 did not provide cost damage estimates); 28 or 6% of the businesses reported no damages; 156 or 36% of the businesses were closed; and 18 or 4% of the businesses declined to participate or no information was provided.
Due to the short time constraints to complete the business damage assessment, the report does not account for potential losses from numerous businesses that closed due to power and water outages shortly after the passing of Typhoon Mawar.
For more information regarding this assessment, contact the BSP at (671) 472-4201/2/3.
- Nearly 50% of cell towers are now operational in Guam.
GHURA Update:
The Guam Housing and Urban Renewal Authority (GHURA) has announced it will resume limited operations effective Monday, June 5, 2023.
Due to the instability of power, water, and connectivity at all GHURA offices, and ongoing repairs needed, please be advised of the following:
- Payments to Section 8 Landlords: These are being processed, however, they may be delayed due to challenges with computer systems and fund transfers within financial institutions. GHURA is doing its best to ensure that payments are received on or before Monday, June 5, 2023.
- Appointments for Section 8 and Public Housing clients: GHURA staff will be contacting all clients with appointments scheduled from May 22 to June 2, 2023, to reschedule appointments. Any documents requiring submission during those dates will be provided new submission dates.
- Waiver of Late fees for all rent and mortgage payments: Late fees will be waived for all rent and mortgage payments due for the month of June.
- Lease terminations: All lease terminations will be extended through June 30, 2023.
For more information, please visit www.ghura.org.
Safety Reminders:
- Make sure food is safe to eat. Residents should throw out any perishable food in their refrigerator that has not been refrigerated at 40° F degrees or lower or if their refrigerator has been without power for over four hours. Never taste food to determine if it is safe to eat.
- Be safe using generators. Generators can help during a power outage but can present serious health and safety risks. Only use a generator outdoors and far from open doors and windows to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Visit Ready.gov/power-outages for more on how to use generators safely.
- Avoid downed power or utility lines. They may be live with deadly voltage. Stay away and report them immediately to the Guam Power Authority. Do not cut or cover cables with debris.
- Exercise caution when cleaning and making repairs. Residents who are returning home, should:
- Wear protective clothing and appropriate face coverings or masks if cleaning mold or other debris, and always work with someone else.
- Document any damage with photographs and contact their insurance company so they can quickly file a claim.
- Ask for help if moving heavy debris in or around their home.
- Boil or use bottled water. As a precautionary boil water notice remains in effect for Guam, residents should continue to use bottled water or boil their water for cooking, drinking and hygiene.
- Stay tuned to local authorities. With heavy rains forecasted, residents should take these precautions:
- If driving, be alert for low visibilities and slippery roads in heavy rain.
- Slow down where water is ponding on the road.
- Avoid walking or driving through flood waters.
- Do not camp, park or hike along streams and rivers.
If you are using a generator in the event of a power outage, please adhere to the following safety precautions:
- Be aware of hazards: Common hazards include shocks and electrocution from incorrect use, carbon monoxide (CO) from a generator’s exhaust, fires from improper refueling or fuel storage, and noise/vibration hazards.
- Keep generators at least 15 feet from any open window, door, or vent while in use. Do not operate a generator in a garage or storage area even with the door open.
- Always follow instructions in the owner’s manual proper “grounding” of the generator.
- Clear flammable and combustible material at least 3 to 4 feet around the generator to avoid a fire.
- Place the generator either in a dry area or under an open canopy structure outside and away from your home; never run generators in the rain or when wet.
- Plug appliances directly into the generator and do not plug multiple power strips together. If you must use an extension cord, it should be 3-pronged, grounded, heavy-duty and labeled for outdoor use.
- Check cords regularly for damage (such as cuts or fraying) that could cause a fire.
- Do not “back feed” power by plugging the generator into a wall outlet. Back feeding will put you and others, including utility workers, at serious risk for electrocution and/or electrical fire risk.
- Even if operated for a short time, generators can become hot very quickly. If you must touch the generator, wear protective gloves. To avoid electric shock or electrocution, do not try to fix or otherwise work on a generator while it is on or plugged in.
Always keep a fully charged fire extinguisher nearby. If you or others show symptoms of CO
poisoning (light-headed, dizzy, tiredness, or nausea) go outside immediately for fresh air and seek medical attention.
- Only use fuel recommended in the owner’s manual.
- Keep fuel in an ANSI-approved container away from the generator.
- Store outdoors in a cool, well-ventilated space – never indoors.
Do not fuel the generator while it is running.
The Guam Fire Department recommends the use of flashlights instead of candles during power outages; however, if you must use candles, the following safety measures must be taken:
- Never leave a burning candle unattended. Extinguish candles completely before you leave the room or wherever you go to sleep.
- Do not burn candles on or near anything that can catch fire. Keep candles away from decorations, curtains, beddings, paper, walls, furniture, and other combustible materials.
- Always keep candles, matches, and lighters out of the reach of children and never leave children unattended in a room where candles are lit. Place candles out of the reach of children and pets and away from areas where they can be knocked over.
- Keep burning candles away from flammable liquids.
- Never touch or move a burning candle when the wax is liquefied.
All Traffic Control Points (TCP) will be unmanned by 6:00 p.m. due to loss of daylight and poor visibility. Motorists are asked to proceed with caution when approaching all major traffic intersections.
Additional Resources:
USDA Offers Disaster Assistance:
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is offering several programs to help agricultural producers.
Risk Management
For producers who have risk protection through the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP), USDA recommends reporting crop damage to the local Guam Farm Service Agency (FSA) office. Those with NAP coverage can file a Notice of Loss (Form CCC-576) within 15 days of loss becoming apparent, except for hand-harvested crops, which should be reported within 72 hours.
Disaster Assistance
USDA also offers disaster assistance programs, for livestock, fruit and vegetable, specialty and perennial crop producers. First, the Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP) and Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybee and Farm-raised Fish Program (ELAP) reimburses producers for a portion of the value of livestock, poultry and other animals that died as a result of a qualifying natural disaster event or for loss of grazing acres, feed and forage. The Tree Assistance Program (TAP) also provides cost share assistance to rehabilitate and replant tree, vines or shrubs loss experienced by orchards and nurseries. For LIP and ELAP, producers will need to file a Notice of Loss for livestock and grazing or feed losses within 30 days and honeybee losses within 15 days. For TAP, individuals will need to file a program application within 90 days.
Documentation
It is critical to keep accurate records to document all losses following this devastating typhoon event. Crop producers are advised to prepare acreage and production data which include, but are not limited to; type of crops, planting dates, farm acreage, and production data. Livestock producers are advised to document beginning livestock numbers by taking time and date-stamped video or pictures prior to and after the loss.
Other common documentation options include:
- Purchase records
- Production records
- Vaccination records
- Bank or other loan documents
- Third-party certification
Other Programs
The Emergency Conservation Program and Emergency Forest Restoration Program can assist landowners and forest stewards with financial and technical assistance to restore damaged farmland or forests. Additionally, FSA offers a variety of loans available including emergency loans that are triggered by disaster declarations and operating loans that can assist producers with credit needs. You can use these loans to replace essential property, purchase inputs like livestock, equipment, feed and seed, or refinance farm-related debts, and other needs.
Meanwhile, USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) provides financial resources through its Environmental Quality Incentives Program to help with immediate needs and long-term support to help recover from natural disasters and conserve water resources. Assistance may also be available for emergency animal mortality disposal from natural disasters and other causes.
Additional Resources
Additional details – including payment calculations – can be found on USDA’s NAP, ELAP, LIP, and TAP fact sheets. On farmers.gov, the Disaster Assistance Discovery Tool, Disaster-at-a-Glance fact sheet, and Farm Loan Discovery Tool can help determine program or loan options. To file a Notice of Loss or to ask questions about available programs, contact your local Guam FSA Office at 671-300-8550 or 671-300-8551.
Guam residents will start seeing FEMA’s Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) crews in neighborhoods today to help Typhoon Mawar survivors apply for federal disaster assistance and to identify needs within communities.
DSA crews primarily focus on helping underrepresented populations that may be hard to reach by traditional channels. Their mission is to assess, and report critical and emerging disaster needs to FEMA leadership for decision-making purposes. Their essential duties include:
- Provide on-site guidance to survivors about the application process, and an overview of FEMA disaster assistance.
- Review survivors’ applications, providing basic information about application status and other eligible assistance, and collecting new information or documents for case files.
- Engage disaster survivors and local officials in identifying immediate unmet needs for a quick resolution via FEMA and/or its partners including voluntary agencies.
- Support community outreach and partnerships with the local, state, tribal or territorial emergency managers, disability partners, private sector, voluntary agencies and faith- and community-based organizations to foster a culture of strengthened alliances to support the delivery of inclusive, equitable services to survivors.
- The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is working with local and territorial officials to determine Disaster Recovery Center locations. Once open, survivors can visit these centers to receive one-on-one help with their disaster registration process and emergency assistance.
- The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has about 135 responders in Guam supporting temporary power, temporary roofing and debris missions. The first generator has been installed to help provide water to a village of roughly 6,000 residents.
- The U.S. Coast Guard is conducting underwater surveys of transit channels and piers to remove any storm-related debris while its pollution response teams continue to assess vessels in the area.
- Members of the Hawaii National Guard are deployed to supplement Guam National Guard soldiers through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – May 28, 2023
Hagåtña, Guam – Today, Governor Lou Leon Guerrero and Lt. Governor Joshua Tenorio met with the Mayors Council of Guam (MCOG) and senior officials with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), including Regional Administrator for FEMA Region 9, Bob Fenton, and FEMA Associate Administrator for the Office of Response & Recovery Anne Binks. Governor Leon Guerrero requested and was granted a Pre-Landfall Declaration by President Biden prior to Typhoon Mawar’s landfall on Guam. She also requested an advance FEMA team that landed on Guam prior to the storm and senior officials who arrived post. Governor Leon Guerrero also requested and was granted a Major Disaster Declaration.
“Today’s meeting was critical to ensuring the island’s mayors had the opportunity to speak directly with FEMA officials about ongoing recovery efforts and needs within their villages,” said Governor Leon Guerrero. “Our mayors are among our first responders and know their residents best. I want to thank them for keeping our people safe through Mawar and for leading recovery efforts forward.”
“We want to provide our mayors the support they need to restore our community whole,” said Lt. Governor Tenorio. “Today, we wanted to not only thank them for their leadership but also offer them the audience with FEMA leadership to ask questions about the FEMA process for federal reimbursements and FEMA’s individual assistance program. We thank them for their commitment and service to our people.”
Governor Leon Guerrero is in the process of applying for Individual Assistance. If granted, more information and the steps involved with the application process will be provided.
This morning President Biden approved Governor Lou Leon Guerrero’s request for Individual Assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which provides grants for homeowners and renters like rental assistance and money for home repairs. FEMA inspectors will perform home by home assessments to initiate the process to provide direct relief to our people.
“We are appreciative of the work we’ve already accomplished with our territorial and federal partners and I’m happy to announce that more relief is on the way,” said Governor Lou Leon Guerrero. “As our community continues making progress towards recovery in the wake of Typhoon Mawar, I’ve been assured that Guam will be provided with every necessary resource for a complete and speedy recovery.”
“FEMA is dedicated to helping Guam recover from Typhoon Mawar,” said FEMA Federal Coordination Officer Bern Ruiz. “Residents who suffered damages to their home as a result of the storm should contact FEMA to register. You can register with FEMA by calling 1-800-621-3362, through our website at disasterassistance.gov and the FEMA App.”
For more information about registration, processing and FEMA’s Individual Assistance program, can be found by visiting fema.gov and disasterassistance.gov.
Visit the following links for the latest advisory information:
- GHS/OCD Website: https://ghs.guam.gov/
- GHS/OCD Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GHSOCD/
- JRM Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jrmguam
The Guam Behavioral Health and Wellness Center (GBHWC) Suicide & Crisis Lifeline remains operational 24/7. The community may call or text the hotline at 988, or chat online at 988lifeline.org.
For more information, contact the Joint Information Center at (671) 478-0208/09/10.
FEMA Individual Assistance Available:
President Biden approved Governor Lou Leon Guerrero’s request for Individual Assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which provides grants for homeowners and renters like rental assistance and money for home repairs. FEMA inspectors will perform home by home assessments to initiate the process to provide direct relief to our people.
Register with FEMA by calling 1-800-621-3362, visiting disasterassistance.gov or downloading the application on the FEMA App. For more information about registration, processing and FEMA’s Individual Assistance Programs, visit fema.gov.
In-person application sites are anticipated to be announced soon.
The Small Business Association (SBA) advised low-interest federal disaster loans are now available to Guam businesses and residents as a result of President Biden’s major disaster declaration. The declaration covers Guam as a result of Typhoon Mawar that began May 22.
Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets. SBA can also lend additional funds to businesses and homeowners to help with the cost of improvements to protect, prevent or minimize the same type of disaster damage from occurring in the future.
For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic injury assistance is available to businesses regardless of any property damage.
Disaster loans up to $200,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $40,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property, including personal vehicles.
Interest rates can be as low as 4 percent for businesses, 2.375 percent for private nonprofit organizations and 2.5 percent for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.
To be considered for all forms of disaster assistance, survivors must first contact the Federal Emergency Management Agency at www.disasterassistance.gov. As soon as Federal-Territory Disaster Recovery Centers open throughout the affected area, SBA will provide one-on-one assistance to disaster loan applicants. Additional information and details on the location of disaster recovery centers is available by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955.
The Bureau of Statistics and Plans (BSP) is conducting the Business Sector Disaster Damage Assessment (BSDDA) of the damages to business establishments that have been caused by Typhoon Mawar.
For more information regarding this survey contact the BSP at (671) 472-4201/2/3.
The Department of Agriculture (DOAG) teams are conducting Preliminary Damage Assessments (PDA) with farmers that are registered with DOAG. The result of the PDA will help determine what assistance programs, if any, can be brought in to support our local farmers. Farmers that suffered crop loss are requested to document their losses and contact DOAG at 671-300-7972-73. Farmers can also visit agriculture@doagguam.gov for more information.
Guam homeowners and renters who were affected by Typhoon Mawar can register with FEMA by calling 1-800-621-3362, visiting disasterassistance.gov or downloading the application on the FEMA App. For more information about registration, processing and FEMA’s Individual Assistance Programs, visit fema.gov.
When you apply for assistance, have the following information ready:
- A current phone number
- Address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying
- Social Security number
- List of damage and losses
- Banking information if you choose direct deposit
- If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name
Survivors may be eligible to receive assistance for uninsured and underinsured damage and losses resulting from Typhoon Mawar. If you have homeowners, renters or flood insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.
Disaster assistance may include financial help with temporary lodging and home repairs, as well as other disaster-related expenses.
For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to, youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.
- The American Red Cross is providing 1,200 meals per day, two (2) hot meals to shelterees and delivering emergency relief supplies to about 3,000 households, which includes clean up kits to help survivors with their recovery. Anyone interested in volunteering can visit the American Red Cross Relief site at the Hilton Guam Resort and Spa or call 1-800-733-2767 for more information.
- The Salvation Army is delivering food to Guam’s Department of Youth Affairs correctional facility.
- The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has a 14-person team supporting response activities in Guam Memorial Hospital and a 15-person team supporting Guam Regional Medical City Hospital.
FEMA assistance is not a replacement for insurance but can assist with basic needs to help start your recovery. This includes assistance to make essential home repairs, find a temporary place to stay and repair or replace certain household items.
In the News:
SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — San Diegans with loved ones in Guam and the surrounding Mariana Islands are anxiously waiting to hear from their loved ones after Typhoon Mawar passed over the region.
The power is out across the entire Western Pacific Island, impacting over 150,000 people. Typhoon Mawar is the most powerful storm to hit Guam in years.