The CNMI government is expected to declare Tropical Storm Condition I for Saipan and Tinian later today as Typhoon Mawar nears. A memo sent to government departments and activity heads said they "anticipate" the declaration, but did not mention any change to Rota's Typhoon Condition II.

"Because of the increasing threat of Typhoon Mawar, we anticipate the declaration of Tropical Storm Condition I for the islands of Saipan and Tinian later today. As such, effective 12:30 pm, all government offices will be closed until an “All Clear” declaration is announced.  Typhoon Condition II was announced for Rota yesterday and government offices there will remain closed," the memo stated. "Non-critical government employees are advised to go home, take care of their families, continue to secure their belongings, and finalize preparations for heavy rainfall and increasing wind speeds through the remainder of the week."

Community shelters were activated Monday at 4 p.m.