Tropical Storm Watch

* WHAT...For the Small Craft Advisory, west winds 15 to 25 kt with gusts up to 35 kt and seas 8 to 12 feet expected. For the Tropical Storm Watch, west winds 25 to 35 kt with gusts to 40 kt possible.

* WHERE...Tinian Coastal Waters and Saipan Coastal Waters.

* WHEN...For the Small Craft Advisory, from 5 PM this afternoon to 5 PM ChST Sunday. For the Tropical Storm Watch through Saturday night.

* IMPACTS...Very strong winds will cause hazardous seas which could capsize or damage vessels and reduce visibility.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Tropical Storm Saudel (17W) is making its approach toward the Marianas, with a storm track across the far northern Marianas. Seas will remain hazardous to small craft this evening as winds increase to 25 kt and combined seas of 8 to 12 feet through Sunday afternoon. Tropical storm force winds of 34 to 63 kt are only possible if there is a significant westward shift in the track of Tropical Storm Saudel today or tonight.