Coral Sea: Tropical Cyclone Irene tracking east-southeastward in the Coral Sea as of the afternoon of Jan. 19 /update 2

Event

Tropical Cyclone Irene is tracking east-southeastward in the Coral Sea the afternoon of Jan. 19. As of 14:00 VUT, the storm's center of circulation was approximately 235 km (146 miles) south-southeast of Port Vila.

Forecast models indicate the system will make a close approach to Tanna and Anatom islands in Tafea Province, Vanuatu over the coming hours before weakening into a tropical disturbance by late Jan. 20 as it tracks generally southeastward. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast; changes could occur in the coming days.

As of Jan. 19, the Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-hazards Department has warned of strong winds, heavy rainfall, rough seas, and possible flooding as the storm system passes through the region. The department is maintaining a red cyclone alert for Tafea Province, as well as blue cyclone alerts for Malampa, Penama, Sanma, Shefa, and Torba provinces and blue cyclone alerts for Province. Meteo France New Caledonia rescinded all watches and warnings in relation to the storm. Authorities will likely issue warnings or update existing advisories throughout the system's progression in the coming days.

Air Vanuatu has suspended most international and domestic flights Jan. 19. The Air Vanuatu Sales Office on Tanna Island remains closed Jan. 19. Further flight disruptions are likely as the airline works to clear backlogs.

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. Stagnant pools of water during and after flooding increase insect- and waterborne diseases, such as dengue fever, cholera, and malaria. Exposure to raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters poses a severe 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
Meteo France New Caledonia
Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-hazards Department