South Pacific: Tropical Low Gina tracking south-southwestwards in the South Pacific Ocean as of May 19 /update 1

Event

Tropical Low Gina is tracking south-southwestwards in the South Pacific Ocean as of May 19. As of 14:00 VUT, the storm's center of circulation was approximately 235 km (146 miles) north-northeast of Port Vila, Vanuatu. Forecast models indicate the system will maintain its strength as it tracks generally southwestward, making landfall over Ambrym Island, Vanuatu, over the coming hours. After landfall, the storm system will make a close approach to Malekula Island, Vanuatu, early May 20. The storm is then forecast to track generally southwest over the Coral Sea May 20, before weakening into a tropical disturbance early May 21 and taking a turn to track south-southwestward towards New Caledonia May 22. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast; changes could occur in the coming days.

As of May 19, the Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-Hazards Department have issued severe weather warnings for strong inland winds of 40-50 kph (25-30 mph) over most of Vanuatu and for heavy rainfall and possible flooding over the central and southern islands of Vanuatu. Residents are advised to take extra precautions for possible flying or fallen objects and for possible landslides or flooding over low-lying areas. Marine strong wind warnings have also been issued for all Vanuatu waters due to rough seas. Authorities will likely issue new warnings or update existing advisories throughout the system's progression in the coming days.

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