China: Tropical Storm Chaba tracking north-northwestward over eastern Guangdong Province late July 2 /update 4

Event

Tropical Storm Chaba is tracking north-northwestward over Guandong Province in southern China as of late July 2, having made landfall near Maoming City at around 15:00 CST as a typhoon. As of 20:00 CST, the system's center of circulation was approximately 351 km (218 miles) west of Hong Kong.

Forecast models indicate that the storm will weaken further as it tracks north-northwestward into southeastern Guangxi Province through early July 3. Chaba is then forecast to weaken into a tropical depression and then dissipate as it turns to track north and then north-northeastward over eastern Guangxi July 3-4. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and significant changes could occur in the coming days.

Heavy rainfall is expected to continue over parts of western Guangdong, eastern Guangxi, and Hainan provinces July 2-3. Rainfall totals of up to 60 cm (24 inches) are possible over parts of the affected area. Officials in Hong Kong have lowered their storm warning to Strong Wind Signal No, 3, with winds speeds of over 41-62 kph (25-39 mph) expected over the territory.

Vietnamese authorities have warned of strong winds and large waves along northern and central parts of the east coast July 2-3. Heavy rainfall is forecast in northeastern regions July 2-3. Rainfall totals of 3-7 cm (1-3 inches) are likely in most of the affected area, with higher rainfall totals of over 8 cm (3 inches). Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the relevant weather alerts over the coming days.

China's National Defense General Office has issued a level 4 emergency response (the highest level on a four-tier scale) and sent two working groups to southern Guangdong Province to assist and guide typhoon prevention work. Authorities in Guangdong and Hainan raised the typhoon alert level for the provinces to Level II on a three-tier scale July 2. Hainan has also triggered a response Level III for floods and wind control. Ports have been closed on the island July 1-4. Railway services have also been suspended and over 400 flights have been canceled at Haikou Meilan International Airport (HAK) and Sanya Phoenix International Airport (SYX).

The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge shuttle bus service, as well as ferry services at Hong Kong Port and from Hengqin Wharf to Shenzhen Shekou and Dongao Island, remain suspended until further notice. Hengqin Port is also closed.

More than two dozen crew members are missing after rough seas generated by Chaba caused an engineering vessel to break in two in the South China Sea. The incident occurred around 300 km (186 miles) southwest of Hong Kong and rescue operations by authorities are ongoing. There has been no further official confirmation of any major damage or casualties associated with the passing of Chaba; however, it may take some time after the storm has passed before damage assessments can be carried out and the full extent of the storm's impact is revealed.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and those with easily overwhelmed drainage systems. Localized evacuations, flash flooding, and landslides are possible if weather conditions prove hazardous.

The inclement weather could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions, rendering some bridges or roadways impassable. Flight disruptions at regional airports and temporary closures of ports are also possible. Raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters pose 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
Vietnam National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting