16 Jul 2022 | 03:15 AM UTC
US: Tropical Storm Darby tracking westward over North Pacific Ocean the evening of July 15 /update 1
TS Darby tracking westward over North Pacific Ocean the evening of July 15; close approach to Hawaii, US, the afternoon of July 16.
Event
Tropical Storm Darby is tracking westward over the North Pacific Ocean as of the evening of July 15. As of 17:00 HST, the system's center of circulation was approximately 640 km (400 miles) east-southeast of Hilo, Hawaii.
Forecast models indicate that the storm will continue tracking westwards as it weakens further, making a close approach to the Island of Hawaii, Hawaii, the afternoon of July 16, passing south of the island. The storm is forecast to weaken further after passing the Island of Hawaii, transition into a post-tropical cyclone with tropical depression strength winds, and dissipate in the North Pacific Ocean early July 17. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and significant changes could occur in the coming days.
Darby is likely to produce rainfall of 5-10 cm (2-4 inches) over the windward portions of Big Island and Maui. The rain could result in nuisance flooding, especially in low-lying and poor drainage areas. Large swells are forecast to affect portions of the Hawaiian Islands July 16-17; the swells are likely to produce hazardous surf and dangerous rip current conditions.
As of the evening of July 15, authorities have issued tropical storm warnings for Hawaiian offshore waters including the portion of the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument east of French Frigate Shoals. Small craft advisories are in place across most of Hawaii's waters. Authorities have issued wind advisories across portions of the Big Island, Maui, Lanai, and Kahoolawe. High surf warnings are in effect for the south-facing shores of all Hawaiian Islands; the surf is likely to build to 3-4 meters (10-14 feet) July 16 before rising to 3.5-5 meters (12-16 feet) from late July 16. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the relevant weather alerts over the coming days as the storm approaches.
Hawaii County officials are likely to close the south-shore beach parks July 16-17 due to the forecaste high surf and rough ocean conditions.
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 can 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.
