U.S. Pacific territories have declared a state of emergency as Super Typhoon Bavi approaches with sustained winds of up to 259 kilometers per hour, prompting residents to rush for supplies and officials to warn of potentially life-threatening conditions.

Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands are facing their second super typhoon threat this year after Super Typhoon Sinlaku struck the region in April.

Bavi was located several hundred kilometers east of Guam and continued to strengthen over the western Pacific. Meteorologists said the storm's sustained winds had reached 259 kilometers per hour, equivalent to a Category 5 hurricane.

Residents rush to prepare

The U.S. National Weather Service warned that the latest forecasts presented a "concerning scenario" for the Mariana Islands and urged all residents to complete storm preparations without delay.

Long lines formed at gas stations, supermarkets and home improvement stores across Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands as residents stocked up on drinking water, canned food, batteries, candles, plywood and other emergency supplies.

Authorities in both Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands declared a state of emergency ahead of the typhoon's expected impact.

Experts warn of stronger storms

Climate experts say rising ocean temperatures are contributing to the rapid intensification of tropical cyclones, increasing the likelihood of more destructive storms and heavier rainfall across vulnerable island regions. (ILKHA)