Pacific Ocean: TD Three-E forms and is tracking north in Pacific Ocean late June 16

Event

Tropical Depression Three-E has formed and is tracking north in the Pacific Ocean late June 16. As of 22:00 CDT, the system's center of circulation was approximately 305 km (190 miles) south-southwest of San Salvador, El Salvador.

Forecast models indicate the system will strengthen slightly into a tropical storm as it continues tracking north through early June 17. The storm is forecast to gradually turn to track northwest, making a close approach as a tropical storm to southwestern El Salvador early June 18. The storm is then likely to maintain its strength while turning to track westwards, making a close approach to southern Guatemala late June 18 before continuing tracking west, off Guatemala's southern coast, through early June 19. The storm is forecast to continue westwards, passing south of Mexico's southern coast through June 21. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and significant changes could occur over the coming days.

As of late June 16, authorities have not yet issued any watches or warnings in relation to the storm. Authorities will likely issue new warnings or update existing advisories as the storm progresses in the coming days. Heavy rain of 7.5-15 cm (3-6 inches) is forecast over southwestern Guatemala and southern Chiapas State, Mexico through late June 19.

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

US National Hurricane Center
National Weather Service
El Salvador National Service for Territorial Studies (SNET)
Guatemala National Institute for Seismology, Vulcanology, Meteorology and Hydrology
Honduras Center for Atmospheric, Oceanographic and Seismic Studies
Mexican Meteorological Service (Spanish)