China: Tropical Depression Koinu tracking westward over far southwestern Guangdong Province early Oct. 10 /update 11

Event

Tropical Depression Koinu is tracking westward over far southwestern Guangdong Province early Oct. 10, following landfall earlier in the day. As of 11:00 CST, the system's center of circulation is approximately 437 km (272 miles) west-southwest of Hong Kong.

Forecast models indicate that the weather system will weaken further as it exits into the Gulf of Tonkin over the coming hours before turning to track southwestwards and dissipating west of Hainan Province early Oct. 11. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and significant changes could occur in the coming days.

The China Meteorological Administration has rescinded all typhoon warnings. The storm resulted in 29 injuries. Most flights at Hong Kong (HKG) and Zhuhai (ZUH) international airports resumed Oct. 9 following brief suspensions. Most MTR and train services in Hong Kong are also operating normally.

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 additional localized business, transport, and utility disruptions, rendering some bridges or roadways impassable. Flight disruptions at airports and temporary closures of ports are also likely to persist. 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)
Hong Kong Observatory
China Meteorological Administration