20 Oct 2023 | 02:50 PM UTC
Gulf of Tonkin: Tropical Depression Sanba tracking southwestward in the eastern Gulf of Tonkin as of late Oct. 20 /update 4
TD Sanba tracking southwestward in the Gulf of Tonkin late Oct. 20. Close approach to northwestern Hainan Island, China, early Oct. 21.
Event
Tropical Depression Sanba is tracking southwestward in the eastern Gulf of Tonkin late Oct. 20, having made landfall over the western coast of the Leizhou Peninsula, Guangdong Province, early Oct. 20 and skirted along the peninsula's coast throughout the day. As of 20:00 CST, the system's center of circulation was approximately 352 km (219 miles) south-southeast of Hanoi, Vietnam.
Forecast models indicate that the storm will continue to weaken as it tracks southwestward and then south-southwestward across the Gulf of Tonkin late Oct 20-21, passing close to northwestern Hainan Island early Oct. 21. The system is expected to dissipate as it moves out of the Gulf of Tonkin late Oct. 21. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and changes could occur in the coming days.
The China Meteorological Administration has issued a blue typhoon warning (the lowest level on a four-tier scale) for parts of Hainan Island as of late Oct. 20. Heavy rainfall and strong winds are forecast in the affected region through at least Oct. 21, as well as rough seas in coastal areas.
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 surges. 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.
