Guam spared from wrath of Typhoon Francisco

Guam - Island residents are breathing a sigh of relief as Typhoon Francisco has spared the territory only bringing with it some strong wind and rain, but no serious damage or injuries. While the Government of Guam and many businesses were closed today, the Tropical Storm Warning was called-off. The all-clear was given around 2pm and the island was put back in Condition of Readiness 4 at that same time.

While most government agencies will reopen on Monday morning, the Treasurer of Guam, the Port Dock Operations, Guam Mass Transit and Public Housing area staffing resumed operations after the all-clear was given. Satellite imagery pinpoints Typhoon Francisco about 200 miles to the west-northwest of Guam, packing maximum sustained winds of 140 miles per hour.

National Weather Service meteorologist Brandon Aydlett says the storm continues pushing to the northwest about 10-11 mph and is strengthening. "But with it moving farther away, we're becoming more in the clear," he explained. "So the biggest problem is we're still going to see heavy showers pushing through the islands. With those showers, we're going to get the gusty winds."

Right now forecasters believe Francisco has its sights set on Japan. Fortunately for Guam though, Aydlett says we will likely see some patches of blue sky this weekend. He warns though that a Small Craft and High Surf Advisory remain in effect for the next several days.

While residents were spared today, Aydlett also sternly said, "It's just a matter of time until we get that direct hit. So it's important for people to assess how they prepared for this one and what lessons can they learn - so what can they do in the future to better prepare for when we do get that storm."

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