Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands —

## What is happening:

The President has approved a federal emergency declaration for the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands tied to Tropical Storm Champi. FEMA Emergency Declaration EM-3658, issued October 17, covers the islands as they deal with the storm's passage.

The declaration opens the door to federal assistance for emergency protective measures, letting federal crews and resources support the islands' storm response. It follows a weekend of escalating action across the Marianas — Guam declared its own state of emergency as Champi approached, and the National Weather Service carried Typhoon Warnings for Guam and Rota with Tropical Storm Warnings for Tinian and Saipan.

Champi has since moved west-northwest, away from the Marianas. The Tropical Storm Warning for Tinian and Saipan has been cancelled, and NWS Tiyan reports tropical-storm conditions were verified on Rota, with damaging gusts lingering for a time.

## Local impacts:

- Tropical-storm conditions confirmed on Rota, with damaging gusts after the storm's closest pass.

- Emergency resources remain mobilized across the Northern Mariana Islands as cleanup and damage checks get underway.

- The federal declaration unlocks aid for emergency protective steps, including direct federal assistance if needed.

## What to do:

- Keep following directions from CNMI emergency management and local officials.

- Stay clear of downed power lines, debris, and flooded roadways — never drive through standing water.

- Check on neighbors, especially the elderly and anyone who may need help.

- Expect more updates as damage assessments continue; conditions can change quickly in the storm's wake.

*Source: FEMA / The White House. Declared October 17, 2026.*