Moderate Special Weather Statement | Effective 07/12/2026 20:22

Latest satellite-derived ocean surface wind data shows a strong burst of west to southwest winds. These stronger winds will continue around Yap and Palau, lasting through Tuesday. Gusts up to gale force, or 35 kt, can be expected at both Yap and Palau. Seas will build in response to the increasing winds with hazardous conditions expected at Yap, making inter-island travel dangerous, especially to small craft. Regional weather continues to be dominated by the circulation, known as 97W, which sits just northwest of Yap near 11N137E. This circulation, still showing a broad wind field, continues to become better organized and is now the subject of a Tropical Cyclone Formation Alert by the Joint Typhoon Warning Center. This means that the formation of a tropical depression is likely within 24 hours. As 97W lifts northward, winds and seas will gradually subside, first across Palau, then across western Yap State. Residents and mariners should keep up to date with the latest forecasts for Yap and Palau by visiting weather.gov/gum or seeking updated information from local Weather Service Offices and emergency managers.