SAIPAN, Northern Mariana Islands — Thousands of Filipinos living in the Mariana Islands are bracing for the impact of Super Typhoon Bavi.
The Marianas—comprising Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands—are home to an estimated 70,000 Filipinos, many of whom work in the construction, tourism, healthcare, retail, and service sectors.
Residents and businesses across Saipan began extensive storm preparations ahead of the Marianas' second super typhoon in a little over two months after Super Typhoon Sinlaku struck the islands in April.
Last Friday, long lines formed at gasoline stations as motorists topped off their fuel tanks, while homeowners flocked to hardware stores to buy plywood, storm shutters and other emergency supplies. Supermarkets and other retailers also saw brisk business as residents stocked up on groceries, bottled water and other essentials. Many homes and commercial establishments boarded up windows with plywood and installed storm shutters in anticipation of Bavi's arrival.
