20 May 2023 | 08:02 AM UTC
North Pacific: Tropical Depression Two tracking north-northwestward in the North Pacific Ocean as of May 20
Tropical Depression Two is tracking north-northwestward in the North Pacific Ocean as of May 20.
Event
Tropical Depression Two is tracking north-northwestward in the North Pacific Ocean on May 20. As of 14:00 ChST, the storm is located 189 km (117 miles) south of Puluwat, Micronesia. The system is forecast to strengthen into a typhoon while tracking north-northwestward by the afternoon of May 23, then turn northwestward, further strengthen and make a close approach to Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands on May 24. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast; changes could occur in the coming days.
Authorities will likely issue weather alerts over the coming days as the storm 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 severe health threat.
Advice
Activate contingency plans in areas where officials forecast tropical cyclone 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.
