10 Apr 2022 | 01:19 AM UTC
West Pacific: TS Malakas tracking northwest in the West Pacific Ocean early April 10; close approach to Yap, Micronesia the afternoon of April 10 /update 1
TS Malakas tracking northwest in the West Pacific Ocean early April 10; close approach to Yap, Micronesia the afternoon of April 10.
Event
Tropical Storm Malakas is tracking northwest in the West Pacific Ocean early April 10. As of 07:00 CHUT, the storm's center of circulation was approximately 165 km (102 miles) east of Fais Island, Federated States of Micronesia.
Forecast models indicate the system will strengthen slightly, making a close approach as a tropical storm to Yap Main Islands, the afternoon of April 10, passing northeast of the islands. The storm is forecast to strengthen further into a typhoon as it continues in its current trajectory through April 11 before gradually turning to track northeastward towards Iwo Jima, Japan, through early April 15. The storm's track and intensity forecast remain somewhat uncertain, and the system may change accordingly over the coming days.
Government Advisories
The US National Weather Service has issued a typhoon watch over Yap coastal waters; typhoon conditions, including damaging winds, are possible through the afternoon of April 10. Potentially hazardous sea and coastal conditions are also forecast over the Mariana Islands. Dangerous rip currents and high surf are likely across the east-facing reefs of the Marianas through early April 11. A small craft advisory is in place for the Marianas coastal waters over the same period due to strong winds and rough seas. A wind advisory is in effect for the Mariana Islands through the evening of April 11; easterly winds of 35-55 kph (25-35 mph) are forecast.
Philippine officials have stated that Malakas is unlikely to impact weather conditions in the country.
Authorities will likely issue new warnings or update existing advisories throughout the system's progression in the coming days. Weather warnings could remain active even after the system's immediate threat has diminished, as some areas may still be susceptible to rain-induced hazards. The possibility of localized evacuations cannot be discounted if weather conditions prove particularly hazardous.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and those with easily overwhelmed drainage systems. If weather conditions prove hazardous, localized evacuations, flash flooding, and landslides are possible. The inclement weather could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions and render some bridges or roadways impassable. Flight disruptions at airports in the region, such as Antonio B. Won Pat International Airport (GUM) in Guam and Yap International Airport (YAP) in the Federated States of Micronesia, and temporary closures of ports are also possible.
Stagnant pools of water during and after flooding increase insect- and waterborne diseases, such as dengue fever, cholera, and malaria. Exposure to raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters poses a serious health threat.
Advice
Activate contingency plans in areas where officials forecast tropical storm conditions. Heed any evacuation orders that may be issued. Use extreme caution in low-lying coastal areas and near streams, creeks, and other waterways due to the potential for severe flooding and storm surge. Stockpile water, batteries, and other essentials in advance. Charge battery-powered devices when electricity is available; restrict the use of cellular phones to emergencies only. Power down mobile devices when not in use. Keep important documents and necessary medications in waterproof containers. Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil-water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming weeks.
Plan accordingly for protracted commercial, transport, and logistics disruptions in areas in the path of the storm, especially if vital infrastructure is damaged. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where flooding has occurred. Confirm flights before checking out of hotels or driving to the airport; clearing passenger backlogs may take several days in some locations.
