01 Sep 2022 | 02:23 AM UTC
Philippine Sea: Tropical Depression 13 is tracking northwestward in Philippine Sea toward Okinawa Prefecture early Sept. 1 /update 1
TD 13 tracking northwest in Philippine Sea early Sept. 1; close approach to Okinawa Island, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan, evening Sept. 1.
Event
Tropical Depression 13 is tracking northwestward over the Philippine Sea early Sept. 1. As of 03:00 JST, the system's center of circulation was approximately 302 km (188 miles) south-southeast of Kadena Airbase, Japan.
Forecast models indicate that the storm will weaken further while turning gradually to track west-southwest, passing south of Japan's Okinawa Island the evening of Sept. 1. The storm is forecast to make another close approach as a tropical depression to Japan's Miyako Island, Okinawa Prefecture, early Sept. 2 before dissipating just east of the island. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and significant changes could occur in the coming days. This system follows closely after Super Typhoon Hinnamnor is forecast to transit the area.
As of early Sept. 1, the Japan Meteorological Agency has issued red high wave warnings across Okinawa Prefecture's Miyako and Yaeyama islands. Yellow thunderstorm, storm surge, and gale advisories are also in effect for Okinawa Prefecture as well as Kagoshima Prefecture's Amami Region. Officials will likely update and extend the coverage of the relevant weather alerts over the coming days as the 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 typhoon or 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.
