Super Typhoon Yutu, the strongest storm of 2018, hit the U.S Northern Mariana Islands this morning with 180 mph sustained winds.

The Category 5 storm is expected to cause catastrophic damage on the U.S commonwealth islands of Saipan, Tinian, and Rota.

Winds of this strength can rip homes off their foundations, uproot trees and power lines and inhibit rescue efforts.

Storm surge, flash flooding, and landslides are also major concerns.

Direct Relief has relationships with health providers throughout the Northern Mariana Islands, including with the Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation on Saipan, which Direct Relief supported in 2015 after Typhoon Soudelor devastated the islands.

Direct Relief’s Emergency Response team is communicating with healthcare providers in Saipan and has offered to dispatch emergency medical supplies as well as hygiene items, water purification sets and medical tents.

Direct Relief will continue providing updates as the situation evolves and more information becomes available.