Marianas

A typhoon warning is in effect for Guam and Rota Island in the Northern Marianas, while a tropical storm warning is in effect for Saipan and Tinian in the Marianas.

RNZ Pacific reports sustained winds are expected to reach 225km/h with gusts reaching 282km/h during Wednesday.

Landon Aydlett from the weather service said the typhoon had dropped in strength from maximum sustained winds of 250km/h to 225km/h.

The decrease in wind speed changed Mawar's status from a super typhoon to a category four typhoon.

The Joint Typhoon Warning Center said the storm, named Mawar, has strengthened to typhoon status and the Marianas will see tropical storm conditions, which may last 12 to 18 hours reports RNZ Pacific.

As of 2am local time on Monday, the centre of Tropical Storm Mawar was moving north-northwest at 13k/ph, and is expected to make a slight turn.

As a result of the approaching typhoon, a flood watch, small craft advisory, and high surf advisory are in effect until Thursday.

The National Weather Service says the volcanic haze is expected to linger across the region for much of the week.

It says it will decrease periodically due to developing showers but the Easterly tradewinds will continue to funnel the haze towards the Micronesian islands and reduce visibility there.

The service says while the haze is not expected to cause widespread health problems, if people suffer from respiratory health issues then they should limit outdoor activities.

The blue-grey haze first impacted the island in May before dissipating.