Philippine Sea: Tropical Depression Five forms in the Philippine Sea and tracking north-northwestward late June 30

Event

Tropical Depression Five (named Domeng in the Philippines) has formed in the Philippine Sea and is tracking north-northwestward as of late June 30. As of 21:00 JST, the system's center of circulation was approximately 861 km (535 miles) south-southeast of Kadena Air Base on Okinawa Island.

Forecast models indicate that the storm will strengthen into a tropical storm as it continues to track generally north-northwestward across the Philippine Sea June 30-July 2, making landfall over Okinawa Island, Japan, July 2. The storm system is then forecast to maintain tropical storm strength as it tracks north-northwestward and then northward in the East China Sea July 3-4. The storm is expected to weaken as it takes a turn to track northeastward July 5, making a close approach to southwestern mainland Japan and southern South Korea. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and significant changes could occur in the coming days.

Authorities have yet to issue any warnings regarding the storm as of late June 30; however, officials will likely issue relevant weather alerts over the coming days as the storm system progresses.

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. 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
China Meteorological Administration
Japan Meteorological Agency
Korea Meteorological Adminsitration
Taiwan Central Weather Bureau