Tropical storm Surigae lashes the island as it slowly inches its way northward at around 3 miles per hour. The tropical storm was moving quite slowly becoming near stationary between Palau Thursday night and Friday with sustained winds of 50mhp as of Friday.
The slow-moving storm continuously lashed the island for nearly 24 hours causing trees to fall, landslides, and creating hazardous conditions prompting the government to close schools and offices on Friday, despite not being in a typhoon condition.
The storm continued to build strength over Palau as is slowly moves up with predictions of possibly reaching typhoon strength as it nears the Philippines.
Power outage occurred island-wide from Thursday night to Friday evening, with areas of the island still experiencing random blackouts on Friday evening. Power, internet and water were out for most of the islands with most of Koror restored back by Friday night. Work crews from all the utilities companies, as well national and States public works were out Friday clearing up fallen trees and debris in midst of the storm.
Meanwhile, hotels were packed with local residents. Palasia Hotel for instance was fully booked by Friday evening. West Plaza Hotel at Lebuu street was also packed as local residents sought safe places with power and water.
Evacuation centers in Kayangel Elementary School, Koror Elementary School and Ngardmau Elementary School were opened for people seeking safe places. There has been no report of major damages in Kayangel or the rest of the country as of Friday night.
Surigae is expected to move further north toward Philippines by this weekend.
