Philippine Sea: Tropical Storm Khanun tracking northward as of July 28

Event

Tropical Storm Khanun is tracking northward in the central Philippine Sea July 28. As of 15:00 JST, the system's center of circulation was approximately 1,682 km (1,045 miles) south-southeast of Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, Japan.

Forecast models indicate that the storm will strengthen into a typhoon as it tracks north-northwestward and then northwestward across the Philippine Sea July 28-31. Khanun is currently forecast to pass just south of Okinawa main island and make landfall over the Kerama Islands late July 31. The system then is expected to maintain typhoon strength as it tracks northwestward across the East China Sea Aug. 1, before making another landfall over northeastern Zhejiang Province, China, late Aug. 1-early Aug. 2. The system is still likely to be at typhoon strength as it crosses Hangzhou Bay and moves close to or over Shanghai Aug. 2. Uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and significant changes could occur in the coming days.

As of July 28, officials have yet to issue any advisories specific to the storm; authorities will likely issue new warnings throughout the system's progression in the coming days. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has issued yellow (the lowest level on a four-tier scale) flood, storm/gale, high wave, and thunderstorm weather warnings across parts of Okinawa prefecture.

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 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 (JTWC)
Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA)
Taiwan Central Weather Bureau
China Meteorological Administration
Korea Meteorological Administration