SAIPAN — The Commonwealth Utilities Corporation said Sunday that power, water and wastewater services are not scheduled to be shut off ahead of Typhoon Sinlaku, pushing back on community rumors while urging residents to take immediate safety precautions before the storm arrives.
CUC warned that residents using generators, solar photovoltaic systems or battery storage must follow strict procedures to prevent electrical backfeeding, which can send electricity into power lines and create life-threatening conditions for utility workers. Generators should only be operated outdoors, at least 20 feet from any structure, and only with a properly installed transfer switch. Solar PV systems should be disconnected at both the inverter and main breaker. Battery storage systems supplying backup power should be turned off.
Residents were also advised to unplug appliances, fill water containers and bathtubs in anticipation of potential service interruptions, turn off the main water valve when evacuating, and conserve water as service is restored after the storm.
A precautionary boil water notice is in effect for Rota. Residents there are advised to boil water for at least three minutes before use for drinking, cooking, brushing teeth and making ice. Any water or ice prepared before the notice should be discarded. CUC’s 24-hour customer service lines are reserved for utility emergencies only. Residents should report downed power lines or sparking transformers and can reach the CUC hotline for power or water outages at 670-236-4333. Emergency customer service is available at 670-664-4282.
