Coral Sea: Tropical Low Gina tracking east-southeastwards in the Coral Sea as of May 21 /update 4

Event

Tropical Low Gina is tracking east-southeastwards in the Coral Sea as of May 20 after passing Vanuatu. As of 14:00 VUT, the storm's center of circulation was approximately 50 km (31 miles) northwest of Aneityum, Vanuatu. Forecast models indicate the system will maintain its strength as it turns to track generally south-southeastwards, making a close approach to Aneityum Island late May 21. Gina is then likely to turn to track south-southwestwards away from the island before weakening and dissipating early May 22. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast; changes could occur in the coming days.

As of May 21, the Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-Hazards Department has issued a tropical cyclone warning; heavy rainfall and flash flooding are likely over the Southern Islands, especially in low-lying areas and areas close to the coast and river banks. Severe weather warnings for strong winds, heavy rainfall, and possible flooding are in place over the Southern Islands through at least May 22; residents are advised to take precautions for possible landslides and flooding over low-lying and coastal areas. Rough to very rough seas with heavy swells are forecast to continue over the Central and Southern waters. Marine strong wind warnings are in place across all of Vanuatu's waters through at least May 22. Poor visibility is likely.

Meteo France New Caledonia has warned that although the storm is weakening, locally heavy and stormy showers are possible over the Loyalty Islands. Yellow (lowest level on a three-tier scale) strong wind warnings have been issued for the Loyalty Islands and from Canala to Yate on the southern east coast. Yellow heavy rain and thunderstorm warnings are also in place across Lifou and Mare islands. Authorities will likely issue new warnings or update existing advisories throughout the system's progression in the coming days.

Heavy rain over Vanuatu resulted in the Prima River overflowing; residents along the river were evacuated early May 20. Air Vanuatu suspended all flight services May 20. Portions of the Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) were flooded May 20 due to a drain blockage. The blockage was cleared the evening of May 20; flights are likely to resume May 21.

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 regional airports 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.

Resources

Joint Typhoon Warning Center
Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-Hazards Department
Meteo France New Caledonia