07 Dec 2023 | 11:29 AM UTC
Coral Sea: Tropical Cyclone Jasper tracking southward to the southwest of the Solomon Islands as of late Dec. 7 /update 2
TC Jasper tracking southward in the Coral Sea late Dec. 7. Warnings continue in the Solomon Islands as the system continues to move away.
Tropical Cyclone Jasper has strengthened into a Category 3 tropical cyclone and is tracking southward in the Coral Sea late Dec. 7. As of 22:00 SBT, the storm's center of circulation was approximately 1,267 km (787 miles) east-northeast of Cairns, Australia.
Forecast models indicate that the storm will strengthen further into a Category 4 tropical cyclone as it tracks generally south-southwestward over the Coral Sea through Dec. 8. The system is expected to weaken back into a Category 3 and then Category 2 tropical cyclone as it turns to track southwestward and then west-southwestward over the Coral Sea through Dec. 12 and begins to approach the northeast coast of Queensland, Australia. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast; significant changes could occur in the coming days.
As of late Dec. 7, the Solomon Islands Meteorological Service is maintaining a tropical cyclone warning across all provinces due to Jasper. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast to continue to affect most provinces and winds gusting up to 87 kph (54 mph) are possible in Rennell and Bellona Province and up to 61 kph (38 mph) across much of the rest of the country. Rough seas are expected in most southern waters and coastal flooding is possible in coastal areas.
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and those with easily overwhelmed drainage systems. Localized evacuations, flash flooding, and landslides are possible if weather conditions prove hazardous.
The inclement weather could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions, rendering 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. Raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters pose a serious health threat.
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.
