Yellow Sea: TD Songda tracking north-northeastward in the Yellow Sea early Aug. 1 /update 3

Event

Tropical Depression Songda is tracking north-northeastward in the Yellow Sea early Aug. 1. As of 12:00 KST, the system's center of circulation was approximately 311 km (193 miles) west of Kunsan Air Base, South Korea.

Forecast models indicate that the storm will weaken slowly as it continues along its current trajectory across the Yellow Sea through early Aug. 2. Songda is forecast to dissipate just off the coast of South Hwanghae Province, North Korea, early Aug. 2 without making landfall. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and significant changes could occur in the coming days.

As of early Aug. 1, authorities have rescinded all advisories and warnings in relation to the storm. Officials may issue relevant weather alerts over the coming hours before the storm system dissipates.

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
Korea Meteorological Administration