Previous 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.
We were able to work together with charity organizations at home and abroad to deliver tarps for temporary shelters, fresh drinking water, over 10,000 diapers, over 12,000 wipes, kitchen supplies, gardening supplies, and more. With the help of so many organizations like, Matson, Micronesia Climate Change Alliance, the Sons and Daughters of Guam Club, Inafamaolek.US, Kutturan CHamoru Foundation, the Guam Club of Sacramento, and more 2 shipping containers filled with the most needed supplies have made their way to Guam and those most in need.
We thank all who have been able to contribute, donate, volunteer, and show up for the families, friends, and islanders back home. Si Yu’os Ma’ase.
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:
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: 06/15/2023 8:38 AM PST
Guam is currently in COR 4; JRM in TCCOr 1R as of 5PM; Response Efforts Underway
Boil Water Notice Lifted:
GWA Update: The Guam Waterworks Authority (GWA) has lifted its precautionary boil-water notice in all areas with stable water service, meaning areas with adequate pressure, chlorine residual levels in the water, and water sampling and analysis which indicate the water in GWA’s distribution system is clear of any contaminants. As of 2 p.m., June 13, 2023 GWA lifted its Precautionary Boil Water Notice completely for the Southern Water System, which includes all areas served by the Ugum Surface Water Treatment Plant from Ipan Talofofo to Umatac. For the Northern and Central Water Systems, GWA is adjusting its Precautionary Boil Water Notice which will now be applicable only to the village of Mangilao, and isolated areas in Barrigada, Ordot-Chalan Pago, Dededo, and Yigo. Visit http://guamwaterworks.org/precautionary-boil-water-notice/ for more information. and Malojloj.
Emergency Assistance:
The U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, in coordination with the Office of the Governor, Guam Homeland Security/Office of Civil Defense, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Mayor’s Council of Guam, have launched the Roofing Installation Support Emergency Utilization Program (RISEUP) to help temporarily repair metal roofs damaged by Typhoon Mawar.
Guam residents who have damaged metal roofs can enroll for the program through their Mayor’s office. There are three steps to sign up:
- Guam resident contacts their Mayor’s office to apply.
- Resident’s roof damage is assessed for eligibility.
- If eligible, a temporary metal roof is installed.
The timeline for how fast temporary roofs can be installed will be largely based on the number of requests and size of the area impacted.
Guam residents do not need to register with FEMA to qualify for this program and participation will not affect other forms of federal disaster assistance, such as those provided by FEMA.
Emergency roof repair assistance is limited to pre-disaster owner-occupied residences. Repairs to commercial properties, including rental units are ineligible.
Additional Eligibility Criteria:
- Dwellings must have disaster-caused roof damage that impacts habitability.
- Dwellings must be otherwise structurally sound. Only dwellings that can be safely occupied after the roof repairs have been completed are eligible. Dwellings that are affected by disaster-caused utility outages are not disqualified based on utility outages alone.
- Approximately 50% of roof substructure (rafters/trusses) must remain, as determined by USACE.
- The damaged roof must cover indoor living space completely enclosed by walls. Living space includes facilities for cooking, eating, sleeping and sanitation. Outdoor kitchens with a damaged roof covering will qualify to the extent that it covers the dwelling’s only means of cooking and storing food. Garages, carports, porches, etc. do not qualify.
- Repairs will only be performed on dwellings with pre-disaster metal roofs. Roofs composed of materials such as concrete, slate, asbestos or clay tile, or other material are not covered under this program.
- Homes unable to be assessed are not eligible. Accessibility is the responsibility of the resident and GovGuam.
To get started visit your Mayor’s office:
AGANA HEIGHTS
ASAN-MAINA
BARRIGADA June U. Blas, Mayor 671-734-3725/34/36/37/3859
CHALAN PAGO-ORDOT
DEDEDO
HÅGAT Kevin J. T. Susuico, Mayor 671-565-2524/4330/4335/4336
HAGÅTÑA
HUMÅTAK Johnny A. Quinata, Mayor 671-828-2940/8251/52/58
INALÅHAN
MALESSO’ | MANGILAO
MONGMONG-TOTO-MAITE
PITI
SANTA RITA-SUMAI
SINAJANA
TALO’FO’FO
TAMUNING Louise C. Rivera, Mayor 671-647-9816/9819/20
YIGO
YONA |
Visit the following links for the latest information:
- Governor’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govlouguam
- GHS/OCD Website: https://ghs.guam.gov/
- GHS/OCD Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GHSOCD/
For more information, contact the Joint Information Center at (671) 478-0208/09/10.
What to Expect from Official FEMA Inspections:
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) inspections are ongoing for those that applied for disaster assistance for damages caused by Typhoon Mawar.
FEMA inspections will help determine whether a home is safe, sanitary and livable. To determine whether an applicant is eligible for assistance, FEMA considers the home’s interior and exterior structural soundness; whether the electrical, gas, heat, plumbing and sewer or septic systems are functional; and whether the home is livable and can be entered and exited safely. FEMA inspections will also consider damages to personal property.
The first step for a FEMA inspection starts with a phone call, text message or email from a FEMA inspector to the applicant to schedule an appointment. Be aware that phone calls from FEMA may come from an unknown number. The inspector will try to make contact up to three times over three days. The case will be locked if the inspector cannot reach you after three attempts.
The inspection process usually takes 30 to 40 minutes. If you were able to take photos or video of interior or exterior damage to the home, show them to the inspector.
Those who are unable to meet with the FEMA inspector for an inspection can have a friend or relative act on their behalf to meet with the inspector. But first they must submit to FEMA a written and signed request for third-party involvement, which is a legal document, authorizing another person who is at least 18 years of age to meet with the inspector and to provide and receive information from FEMA on their behalf.
Important to Know:
- The inspector will not be collecting any documentation and will never ask for personal information like a Social Security number.
- FEMA never charges for an inspection.
- If a FEMA inspector comes to your home and you did not submit a FEMA application, your information may have been used without your knowledge to create a FEMA application. If so, please inform the inspector that you did not apply for FEMA assistance so they can submit a request to stop all further processing on the application.
- A fraudulent application could be a sign of identity theft. For information on what to do if you suspect identity theft, please visit identitytheft.gov.
- If you wish to apply for FEMA assistance after stopping an application made in your name without your knowledge, the FEMA Helpline will need to assist you in creating a new application. Call 1-800-621-3362.
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.
Disaster Recovery Centers Updated Hours:
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) will operate from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. up until the end of this week.
Beginning Sunday, June 18, 2023, DRC sites will operate seven days a week with the following updated times:
- DRC 1 – Guam Community College: 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- DRC 2 – Dededo Sports Complex: 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- DRC 3 – C.L. Taitano Elementary School: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- DRC 4 – Inalahan Community Center: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) are accessible facilities and mobile offices you can visit to learn more about FEMA and other disaster assistance programs. The DRC will be open to assist island residents impacted by Typhoon Mawar with disaster relief programs.
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 also 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.
To date, over 19K Guam residents have applied for disaster assistance.
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.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) opened an SBA Business Recovery Center in Guam on Saturday, June 3, to provide a wide range of services to businesses impacted by Typhoon Mawar. The SBA Business Recovery Center is open Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., and Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., at the U.S. SBA Guam Branch Office, 400 Route 8, Suite 302, Hagatna, Guam, 96910.
Guam Small Business Development Center business advisors can provide business assistance to clients on a wide variety of matters designed to help small business owners re-establish their operations, overcome the effects of the disaster and plan for their future.
Businesses of any size 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. These loans cover losses that are not fully covered by insurance or other recoveries.
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 Disaster Loan assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage.
For business owners who are unable to visit the business recovery center, they may apply online using SBA’s secure website at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information.
The deadline to apply for property damage is July 27, 2023. The deadline to apply for economic injury is Feb. 28, 2024.
The Guam Department of Agriculture (DOAG) Agriculture Development Services Division (ADS) will be initiating the application process to assist Guam’s farmers and ranchers with recovery from loss after Super Typhoon Mawar. Preliminary assessments conducted by the ADS division estimates farmers are experiencing 90% – 100% loss.
The Crop Loss Compensation Program (CLCP) provides monetary relief to farmers and ranchers for losses to crops, livestock and/or property, due to natural disasters. Compensation does not cover 100% of the loss but serves more as a recovery support to help farmers and ranchers start fresh.
Priority is given to eligible farmers/ranchers who meet all three of the following criteria:
- Registered with DOAG ADS as Bona Fide farmers/ranchers;
- Engaged in the commercial production of crops (vegetables/fruit trees) and/or livestock; and
- Current and in good standing with production reports (due every six months from date of certification)
Registered subsistence farmers and unregistered commercial and unregistered subsistence farmers will be assessed and considered after all commercial farmers, in good standing, are processed. Registered farmers are required to report their crops and/or livestock quantities and update their Bona Fide six-month reports prior to a storm occurrence. Not reporting prior to the storm does not exclude you from this opportunity. Rather, this advanced notification allows ADS to expedite the processing of their claims. Pertinent information to know for next week:
- Applications for Crop Loss Compensation will be available starting Monday, June 05th.
- Applicants have 10 working days to submit applications with all required documents and/or pictures.
- Documents that assist with processing include: valid identification, listing of crops/livestock losses and amounts (acreage or count), list of equipment lost, timesheets and employment contracts for labor, total acreage farmed, receipts (crop/livestock purchases, fertilizers, water usage, fuel, etc.).
ADS personnel will be stationed at the following locations to issue applications and provide application guidance:
- June 05, 10am to 4pm – Northern location: Farmers’ Cooperative Association of Guam, Southern location: Inalåhan Mayor’s Office
- June 06, 10am to 4pm – Northern location: Farmers’ Cooperative Association of Guam, Southern location: Inalåhan Mayor’s Office
- June 07 – 20, 8am to 5pm – Department of Agriculture in Mangilao, two story Wildlife building
Farmers and ranchers are encouraged to bring valid identification and receipts for items they will claim. The last day to submit applications is June 20 at 4:30 p.m.
As a reminder, any farmer selling produce commercially must comply with Guam law 5 GCA Chapter 68 subsection 68101 (d) and be registered with DOAG ADS as a Bona Fide farmer.
In an effort to support farmers and ranchers with all possible programs available, USDA Farm Services Agency will also be on site to provide information about available federal farmer/rancher programs.
For more information contact the DOAG ADS at agriculture@doag.guam.gov, or (671) 300-7973/7972/7967.
Current Advisories:
Avoid Sharing Unofficial Information:
The Joint Information Center is aware of an unofficial circulating message purporting that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is informing the community to hire private contractors to conduct assessments. That circulating message and guidance is false.
The community is reminded to avoid sharing unofficial information and messages further, to avoid confusion.
To clarify, FEMA always advises disaster survivors to first contact their insurance company and go through their established process for submitting a claim for damages. Then survivors should apply for federal disaster assistance at disasterassistance.gov, by using the FEMA mobile app, by calling 800-621-3362 (The Helpline is available 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week at no cost for Guam residents) or by stopping by a Disaster Recovery Center located at Guam Community College, Dededo Sports Complex, C.L. Taitano Elementary School and Inalahan Community Center (open seven days a week 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.).
Survivors may be eligible to receive assistance for uninsured and underinsured damage and losses resulting from Typhoon Mawar. If they have homeowners, renters or flood insurance, they should file a claim as soon as possible because FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If their policy does not cover all their disaster expenses, they may be eligible for federal assistance.
Federal assistance may include financial help with temporary lodging and home repairs, as well as other disaster-related expenses.
Guam EPA Investigating Unapproved Water Delivery Services:
The Guam Environmental Protection Agency (Guam EPA) has been made aware of facilities around the island who have taken delivery of water from companies who were using tanker trucks that are not rated or approved for potable water.
Non-potable tanker trucks are not approved for delivery of water for human consumption. Boiling water which is handled in this manner will not make it safe for human consumption. Non-potable tanker trucks are used to carry water which is not tested and may contain bacteria or chemical contaminants at levels which are unsafe for human consumption. Traces of these contaminants will remain in the tank after non-potable use, and will remain present in the water that consumers receive from the building plumbing system.
Guam EPA urges that if your facility has received water in this manner, CEASE CONSUMPTION IMMEDIATELY and DO NOT DRINK IT. Anyone who may come into contact with this water is hereby notified to cease:
- drinking this water
- using it for cooking
- brushing teeth
- using it in any way that may risk ingestion.
Guam EPA advises individuals or patrons of facilities who may have received water from an unapproved method of the following:
- Use bottled water for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, and food preparation until further notice
- The water delivered by truck may be used for non-potable purposes such as flushing toilets, laundry, and other household cleaning
Guam EPA is requiring owners of affected facilities have taken delivery of water from companies through unapproved methods to:
- self identify
- provide notification to all residents and patrons, using the required notification form, that Water at their facilities was derived from an unapproved source and should not be consumed
- contact Guam EPA for the required notification form, or download one by CLICKING HERE.
- notify Guam EPA of the dates of each water delivery, the company who delivered the water, and the amount of water delivered for each date via email to: brian.bearden@epa.guam.gov or nic.rupley@epa.guam.gov
An investigation is currently underway, and Guam EPA continues to contact owners of all non-potable water delivery trucks who may have delivered water through unapproved methods. Supplying water intended for consumption through unapproved methods shall be considered to be in violation of the Guam Safe Drinking Water Act and may be subject to administrative penalty orders of up to $32,500 per violation, per day.
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.
Report Suspicious Activity to Local Authorities:
While official reports of this have not been made, the community is advised to be aware of potential con artists or criminals posing as disaster assistance in order to obtain money, steal personal information, or garner items. Be mindful that:
- Disaster assistance officials carry official photo ID badges;
- Disaster assistance officials never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications;
- Be wary of unexpected phone calls or visits from people claiming to be housing inspectors or claiming they work for FEMA if they do not reference your application number. Know that official FEMA representatives will have your FEMA application number to reference;
- Do not give out banking information to a person claiming to be a housing inspector.
The community is advised to report any suspicious activity or suspected fraud to local law enforcement or the Mariana Regional Fusion Center (MRFC) at (671) 475-0400 or via email at mrfc@ghs.guam.gov, following the Department of Homeland Security’s campaign, “If You See Something, Say Something.” Information that is provided to the MRFC will be recorded and properly disseminated to all pertinent authorities.
GPA Generator Safety:
The Guam Power Authority (GPA) advises the community of the proper use of generators during a power outage. If installed and operated correctly, use of standby or portable electric generators poses little danger, but improper installation or use could be dangerous and even deadly. Follow the directions from the operator’s manual supplied with the generator. Incorrect generator use can lead to carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, electric shock or electrocution and fire.
GPA provides the following tips for the safe operation of and use of generators:
Connecting the Generator:
- Never try to power house/building wiring by plugging the generator into a wall outlet, a practice known as “back feeding”. It can lead to electrocution of utility workers or neighbors served by the same utility transformer. The only safe way to connect a generator to a house/building wiring is to have a qualified electrician install a power transfer switch.
- Use proper extension cords. Use only safety-tested, shop-type electrical cords designed and rated for heavier, outdoor use to connect appliances.
- Protect your appliances. Turn off or unplug all appliances and lights before you begin operating the portable generator. Once the generator is running, turn your appliances and lights on one at a time to avoid overloading the unit.
Placement of Generator:
- Never use a portable generator indoors – If you or someone starts to feel sick, dizzy or weak while using a generator, move to fresh air right away, do not delay.
- Place the generator in a dry, outside location.
- Place the generator away from windows, doors, and vents that could allow CO to come indoors.
- To avoid electrocution, keep the generator dry. Do not use it in rain or wet conditions. Always operate generators on a dry surface under an open canopy-like structure. Make sure your hands are dry before touching the generator.
Use and Storage of Generator Fuel:
- Turn the generator off and let it cool before refueling. Gasoline spilled on hot engine parts could ignite.
- Store fuel in an approved safety can outside of living areas, preferably in a locked area or other protected area.
- If you spill fuel or do not seal the container properly, invisible vapors can travel along the ground and be ignited by arcs from electric switches in the appliance.
- Use the type of fuel recommended in the generator instructions or on its label.
Shutting down the Generator:
- Before shutting down a generator, turn off and unplug all appliances and equipment being powered by the generator.
Damaged Weatherheads and other Electrical Components
While restoration is ongoing, customers are advised to conduct their own home and property assessment of weatherhead and electrical components, taking necessary steps to repair damages caused by Typhoon Mawar.
Frequently Asked Question: My weatherhead and/or electrical components (meter box, service entrance conduit & cable, riser) are damaged. What should I do? These components are the customer’s responsibility.
- Account holder or authorized person visits any of GPA’s Customer Service lobbies and requests for a work clearance. A GPA representative will issue a work clearance and a GPA Electrical Inspection Report form.
- GPA crew will schedule removal of the service line and meter. Once removed, customers can hire and schedule contractor/master electrician to make repairs. A list of licensed master electricians is available on the Guam Contractors License Board website at http://clb.guam.gov/index.php/contractors-listing/.
- Upon completion of repairs, the master electrician must print name, sign and include ME license number on GPA’s Electrical Inspection Report form. Please contact GPA Customer Service at (671) 647-5787/88/89 or email customersfirst@gpagwa.com, informing representatives of the completed work.
- Customers will be contacted once meter installation and service line reconnection is scheduled. Customers must present an Electrical Inspection Report to GPA crew upon arrival.
GPA locations & Hours:
Fadian Customer Service Center & Main Office
Gloria B. Nelson Public Service Building 688 Route 15 Fadian, Mangilao, Guam
Monday-Friday 7am-5pm
Closed on Weekends & Holidays
Hagatna Customer Service Lobby
Julale Shopping Center Ste 103, 424 West O’Brien Drive, Hagåtña, Guam
Monday-Friday 8am-5pm
Closed on Weekends & Holidays
GPWA Upper Tumon Lobby
578 North Marine Corps Drive, Tamuning, Guam
Monday-Friday 7:30am-6pm Saturday 8am-12pm
GFD Generator and Fuel Safety:
In accordance with the Guam Fire Code and IFC 2009, the Guam Fire Department (GFD) advises the community to always consider safety when transporting equipment such as, but not limited to, fuel containers and generators.
Fuel, both gas and diesel, must be transported in an approved container, it must be safely secured and must use proper fuel caps. Fuel cannot be transported within the passenger compartment areas of a vehicle.
Equipment such as generators must be properly drained of fuel prior to transport or transported in an approved vehicle designed for transport.
Agency & General Updates:
Disaster Debris Disposal Site Updated Hours:
Effective Wednesday, June 21, 2023 through Wednesday, July 5, 2023, residential use of the three Typhoon Mawar disaster debris disposal sites will be available from 4pm to 6pm Monday through Friday, and from 9am to 6pm on weekends. The updated hours will impact sites at the old transfer station in Dededo, the former Tiyan carnival grounds in Barrigada and Ypao Point in Tamuning. Hours of operation for designated sites identified for green waste disposal will remain the same and open from 6am to 6pm, seven days a week.
Government of Guam agencies and departments will continue to have access to the disaster debris disposal sites from 9am to 4pm, Monday through Friday:
SITE | USAGE | HOURS OF OPERATIONS | WASTE TYPES |
Old Transfer Station, Dededo | GovGuam Only | Monday – Friday: 9am – 4pm | Household trash, Household bulky waste, Metallic waste Wood waste, Construction debris Household hazardous waste, White goods/Appliances Electronic waste |
Residential | Monday – Friday: 4pm – 6pm Saturday – Sunday: 9am – 6pm | ||
Former Tiyan Carnival Grounds, Barrigada | GovGuam Only | Monday – Friday: 9am – 4pm | Household trash, Household bulky waste, Metallic waste Wood waste, Construction debris Household hazardous waste Green waste, White goods/Appliances Electronic waste |
Residential | Monday – Friday: 4pm – 6pm Saturday – Sunday: 9am – 6pm | ||
Ypao Point, Tamuning | GovGuam Only | Monday – Friday: 9am – 4pm | |
Residential | Monday – Friday: 4pm – 6pm Saturday – Sunday: 9am – 6pm |
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.
- June 13, 2023Typhoon Mawar RestorationDay 19 Since COR4 DeclaredCUSTOMERS RESTORED: 64.2%LOAD RESTORED (MW): 81.5%GENERATION: SUFFICIENTKEY RESTORATION EVENTS:• Service restored to an additional 1,861 customers within the last 24-hours, including densely-populated residential buildings and/or areas in Dededo, Yigo, Mongmong-Toto-Maite.• Island power restored to an additional three (3) water/wastewater assets.ONGOINGContinue Phase II recovery effort by sweeping these areas and restoring the maximum number of customers with minimal typhoon damage. Those with significant damages will be addressed in Phase III recovery efforts.AREAS OF FOCUS OVER THE NEXT 1-7 DAYS INCLUDE:NORTHERN SECTORSevere typhoon damage to the power grid in Dededo and Yigo.• Dededo, various areas including at or near the main village, Ysengsong, Cockpit area, Chalan Balako, Kayen Kadada, Rte 3, Salisbury, Astumbo, Lower Astumbo, Chalan Guriyos, Chalan Chacanao, Wusstig Rd, Batulo St, North Henry Kaiser, Quezon St, Mepa St, Rizal St, Mabini St, Chalan Ottot, Chalan Kareta, Mogfog• Yigo, various areas including at or near East Gayinero, Agafa Gumas, Chalan Padiron Lagu, Chalan Okso (Rte 15), Piga subdivision, Chalan Santa Ana, Chalan Ramirez, Agaga Ave, Chalan Cabesa, Mataguac, Tun Josen Diego, Toves St, Chalan Tun Luis Duenas, Chalan Enriquen Rosario, Marianas Terrance, Chalan Paharu, AnaoCENTRAL SECTOR• Tamuning/Harmon, various areas including those at or near Summerville, Villa Rosario, Hemlani’s Apts• Barrigada, various areas including those at or near Jalaguac St• Asan-Maina, various areas• Hagåtña, various areas• Sinajana, various areas including Afame• Agana Heights, various areas• Mongmong-Toto-Maite, various areas including those at or near Paterno St, Robat St, Harvest• Mangilao, various areas including Latte Hts, Banyon Hts, Kinney’s Dr, Pagat, Dormitory Dr• Ordot-Chalan Pago, various areas including those at or near Famha, Santa Cruz Dr, Kongga Rd• Piti, various areas including those at or near Halsey Dr, Turner RdSOUTHERN SECTOR• Yona, various areas including those at or near Manenggon Valley, Chaco Rd• Talofofo, various areas• Hågat, various areas• Santa Rita, various areas• Inalåhan, various areas• Målesso, various areas• Humåtak, various areasCrews continue to work to replace/repair power line components damaged during the storm. 24-hour operations will continue to restore outstanding areas as quickly as possible.Crews continue to repair the transmission lines along Route 16. Please exercise caution while driving in this area.GENERATION CAPACITY• Current operable capacity is 222MW which is adequate for today’s load of 163MW.• Cabras 2 (45MW), Piti 8 (43MW) & Piti 9 (43MW) are online. Work continues on Cabras 1 (45MW) which is expected to be online in 3 days.Thank you for your continued patience as we work to restore your power.Stay updated by visiting our website and social media pages and staying tuned to radio reports and the news for the latest information. GPA encourages everyone on social media to share only information from credible sources.####As power lines heat up, weak points of the system will be apparent (e.g., storm damaged transformers, fuse cutouts, lightning arrestors, connections). Crews will do their best to make immediate repairs; if they cannot, they will return to make the repairs as soon as possible. Please report emergency power issues to GPA Dispatch at 475-1472/3/4.The island-wide power system (IWPS) may be unstable, with fluctuating voltages, power interruptions and intermittencies occurring during restoration and recovery especially after a strong typhoon. Outages or interruptions may occur after power has been restored. This is not unusual as the grid is fragile and a period of system instability will occur until full restoration is completed. GPA will make every effort to have power restored as quickly as possible to its customers. Once full restoration is completed around the island, the system will stabilize and less power interruptions will occur.Snohomish PUD high-reach bucket trucks are anticipated to arrive this week via FEMA-chartered air transportation, allowing the major repairs to the main transmission lines to accelerate. Additional bucket trucks sourced by DoD and FEMA are expected to arrive over the next two (2) weeks, allowing line crews to address repair and restoration in more areas islandwide.Our priority is to restore energy back into your homes and businesses; and restore the island-wide power system online at full capacity. GPA linemen and support crews are working night and day for you, your families, and your businesses. Si Yu’os Ma’åse’ for your patience and support.
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 the Water System Status update as of 9 a.m.:
Northern:
- GWA northern water system is operating normally.
- 91 operable wells are online (76% of total wells).
- There are currently 47 wells on island power and 44 operating on gensets.
- GWA continues to operate all available wells to increase reservoir levels throughout the northern system and send more water to the Central System.
Central:
- Santa Rita and Agat have been restored.
- Service on Cross-island road area restored up to the Sumay area of Santa Rita.
- Talo’fo’fo main village has been restored.
- Piti, including the higher area of Nimitz Hill, Asan, and Hagatna, are fully restored.
- Until levels in Barrigada, Chaot, and Mangilao reservoir levels build, higher areas in Mangilao, Ordot, Chalan Pago will continue to experience intermittent service disruption during peak demand times.
Southern:
- GWA’s southern water system continues to operate at reduced capacity at the Ugum Surface Water Treatment Plant.
- Water services are restored from Ipan to Umatac.
Ten (10) – 6,000 gallon Flexible Potable Water Tanks (FPWT):
North
- Dededo Mayor’s Office, Dededo
- Mount Santa Rosa (near observatory), Yigo
- Astumbo Community Center, Dededo
- Yigo Gym, Yigo
- Yigo, Gill-Breeze Subdivision
Central
- Teresita Church, Mangilao
- Adacao Elementary School
- Shop 4 Less – stationed at the rear of the building on S. Biang St side, Maite
South
- Santa Rita/Apra Hts – Sinifa
- Agat, Santa Ana
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.
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) provides the following updates:
Curbside Trash Collection: Effective Monday, June 12, 2023, curbside trash collection services will be provided exclusively to registered GSWA customers, only. Only GSWA issued trash carts will be serviced. Any excess bags must be tagged with GSWA issued trash tags which can be purchased at the GSWA office or any residential transfer station.
Curbside Recycle and Bulky Waste Collection: Curbside recycle collection and bulky waste collection services are expected to resume on Monday, June 19, 2023. Customers who have existing appointments will be contacted for rescheduling by a GSWA Customer Service Representative. To cancel an appointment, contact customer service at 671-646-3111 or email customerservice@gswa.guam.gov.
Residential Transfer Stations (Harmon, Agat, and Malojloj): The residential transfer stations will resume regular hours of operation – Thursday through Monday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, closed on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Government Holidays. Effective June 12, 2023, all trash being disposed of at the transfer stations will be charged a fee, and appliances will no longer be accepted.
Layon Landfill: The Layon Landfill will return to regular hours of operations – Monday through Friday from 7:00 am to 3:30 pm, and on Saturday from 7:00 am to 2:30 pm. The Hauler-Only transfer station may have extended hours of operation if necessary.
Replacement of Lost or Damaged Trash Carts: Replacement carts can still be paid for and picked up at the GSWA office. Additionally, cart delivery scheduling will resume on Monday, June 12, 2023. Customers whose carts are lost or damaged and require a replacement will be charged a replacement fee of $74.75.
Visit https://www.guamsolidwasteauthority.com/ further updates and announcements or contact GSWA 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 Update:
The following Guam Police Department (GPD) Service Counters are now open with modified hours and locations:
Hakubotan (Army and Boating): 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday
For Police Clearances – Central Precinct, Sinajana 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday.
GPD is currently experiencing intermittent Internet services. Cash is only being accepted at this time.
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.
GRTA Shuttle Service:
Beginning Tuesday, June 6, 2023, the Guam Regional Transit Authority (GRTA) will provide temporary shuttle service to the GCC Relief Center for southern transit riders. GRTA Southern Shuttle to the GGC Relief Center will service riders from Buenas market in Yona to the Relief Center at GCC from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Last pick up from the Relief Center at GCC to Buenas Market in Yona is at 7 p.m.
GRTA’s Southern Shuttle service route schedule will remain the same, and will continue to provide service in Hågat, Sånta Rita-Sumai, Humåtak, Malesso’, Inalåhan, and Talo’fo’fo Mayor’s office. For more information, contact GRTA at 671-647-7433 or visit grta.guam.gov.
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:
Citizenship and Immigration Status Requirements for FEMA Assistance:
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is committed to helping all eligible disaster survivors recover from Typhoon Mawar, including U.S. citizens, non-citizen nationals and qualified aliens.
A non-citizen national is a person born in an outlying possession of the U.S., on or after the date the U.S. acquired the possession, or a person whose parents are U.S. non-citizen nationals. All U.S. citizens are U.S. nationals; however, not every U.S. national is a U.S. citizen.
Qualified Aliens, which includes:
- A legal permanent resident (“green card” holder);
- An asylee, refugee or an alien whose deportation is being withheld;
- An alien paroled into the U.S. for at least one year;
- An alien granted conditional entry (per law in effect prior to April 1, 1980);
- A Cuban or Haitian entrant;
- Certain victims of a severe form of human trafficking, including persons with a “T” or “U” visa; and
- An alien or child of an alien who has been battered or subjected to extreme cruelty in the U.S.
Qualified Minor Children
If the applicant is a minor child, the co-applicant must be the child’s parent or legal guardian. The minor child must have been under age 18 at the time Typhoon Mawar occurred.
Resources
If you do not meet the status of either U.S. citizen, non-citizen national or qualified alien, your household may still apply for and be considered for IHP assistance if:
- Another adult member of your household meets the eligibility criteria and certifies their citizenship status during the registration process or signs the Declaration and Release form, or
- The parent or guardian of a minor child who is a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national or a qualified alien applies for assistance on behalf of the child, if they live in the same household. The parent or legal guardian must register as the co-applicant, and the minor child must be under age 18 at the time the disaster occurred.
If you’re unsure of your immigration status, talk to an immigration expert to learn if your status meets the requirements for FEMA disaster assistance. Visit nvoad.org to learn about other voluntary organizations.
How to Appeal FEMA’s Decision:
If you receive a letter from FEMA saying you are ineligible for assistance, you can appeal the decision and provide more information. An appeal is a written request to FEMA to review your file again, and an opportunity to provide new or additional information not previously submitted.
What Can You Appeal
You may appeal any decision by FEMA regarding your application for Individual Assistance program, such as your initial eligibility decision, the amount or type of assistance provided to you, the denial of a late application request, requests to return money.
How to Appeal
An appeal should be filed in the form of a signed letter within 60 days of the date on the determination letter. In the appeal, explain why you disagree with the decision. Be sure to include the following:
- Applicant’s full name, current address and damaged dwelling address;
- Applicant’s 9-digit FEMA application number, found at the top of the determination letter (on every page);
- FEMA disaster declaration number, for example DR-4715-GU (on every page) ; and
- Applicant’s signature and the date
If you choose to have a third party submit an appeal on your behalf, the appeal letter must be signed by the third party. Additionally, please include a statement signed by you authorizing the third party to appeal on your behalf.
FEMA does not accept multiple appeals for the same reason, but may request additional information and will review new information.
Mail your appeal letter to:
FEMA Individuals & Households Program
National Processing Service Center
- O. Box 10055
Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055
You can also upload your appeal letters and supporting documentation to your account on disasterassistance.gov, or fax to 800-827-8112.
Hagåtña, Guam – The Guam Department of Labor (GDOL) is currently working with FEMA and the U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) to stand up a Disaster Unemployment Assistance program and will make announcements as soon as more information becomes available, including eligibility, application processes, accessibility, contact information, timeline, coverage, and other information. At this time, we encourage individuals to document any losses in employment or wages due to the effects of Typhoon Mawar.
For more information, contact GDOL at 671-475-7000/1 or visit dol.guam.gov.
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.
Walk-Up Service Not Provided at Salvation Army Headquarters:
The Salvation Army Headquarters in Tiyan Guam is not providing walk-up services on site. Instead, the Salvation Army is providing services door-to-door. The Salvation Army Thrift Store in Tamuning remains open to the community daily from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
The Salvation Army will never go door-to-door to ask for donations. The community is advised to report any suspicious or fraudulent activity to local authorities.
- 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.