Tropical Depression 23-W has been upgraded to a tropical storm as the system continues its track toward the Marianas.  A Tropical Storm Watch remains in effect for the island.  The center of the formation is located near 131.1 degrees north latitude and 147.4 degrees east longitude.  The system is moving west-northwest at 17 miles per hour and is expected to pass between Guam and Rota around noon today. 

Maximum sustained winds associated with 23-W are 40 MPH and the storm is expected to intensify over the next 24 hours after it passes the Marianas.  Island residents can expect increasing showers and thunderstorms beginning late this morning into the afternoon.  Guam remains in Condition of Readiness 4. 

Meanwhile, Saipan has been declared in Condition of Readiness 2 with the possibility of damaging winds.