Moderate Special Weather Statement | Effective 08/19/2026 02:46

Tropical Depression 17W was upgraded to Tropical Storm Saudel by the Joint Typhoon Warning Center and continues to consolidate as it moves north-northwest and away from Chuuk State. Strong westerly winds are ongoing south of the circulation and will continue to impact Chuuk, with 40 kt gusts possible Thursday. Heavy showers, flash flooding, mudslides, and gusty winds will continue to impact Chuuk over the next few days. A Small Craft Advisory is in effect until Friday afternoon for Chuuk. Additional rainfall amounts of 3 to 5 inches are possible through the week. These rainfall amounts could continue to pose flash flooding and potential mudslide risk. In the latter half of the week, a monsoon surge will develop and continue to impact Chuuk with gusty winds and seas hazardous to small craft. Residents across Chuuk State should monitor local forecasts and heed advice of emergency managers when heavy rainfall occurs. For more information on Tropical Storm Saudel, please see bulletins issued by the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) under WMO header WTPN31 PGTW and by the National Weather Service under WMO header WTPQ31 PGUM.