(NWS) Tropical Storm Champi continues to strengthen this morning as it makes its steady approach toward the Marianas. At 5 a.m. ChST, Champi was centered 800 miles east of Guam near 11.6N 156.5E. It had been moving west (280 degrees) at 12 mph. Maximum sustained winds were now at 40 mph.
Champi is expected to steadily strengthen in the coming days, likely becoming a typhoon on Saturday as it nears the Marianas.
Champi is forecast to continue generally west-northwestward with a slight increase in forward motion. The prevailing concern regarding Champi’s approach to the Marianas is if, and when, rapid intensification may occur.
As currently forecast, Champi will pass very near, or over, Guam late Sunday morning.
A Typhoon Watch is in effect for Guam, Rota, Tinian and Saipan. This means that typhoon force conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or more) are
possible, with damaging, tropical storm force winds beginning within 48 hours.q