06 Dec 2023 | 10:12 AM UTC
Solomon Sea: Tropical Cyclone Jasper tracking south-southwestward to the southwest of the Solomon Islands as of late Dec. 6 /update 1
TC Jasper tracking south-southwestward in the Solomon Sea late Dec. 6. Warnings continue in the Solomon Islands as the system moves away.
Tropical Cyclone Jasper has strengthened into a Category 2 tropical cyclone and is tracking south-southwestward in the Solomon Sea late Dec. 6. As of 22:00 SBT, the storm's center of circulation was approximately 513 km (319 miles) west-southwest of Honiara, Solomon Islands.
Forecast models indicate that the storm will strengthen into a Category 3 and then Category 4 tropical cyclone as it tracks generally south-southwestward into the Coral Sea through Dec. 7, passing well to the east of Milne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea. The system is expected to maintain Category 4 tropical cyclone as it tracks south-southwestward over the Coral Sea Dec. 7-8, before weakening into a Category 3 and then Category 2 tropical cyclone as it turns to track southwestward and begins to approach the east coast of Queensland, Australia through Dec. 11. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast; significant changes could occur in the coming days.
As of late Dec. 6, the Solomon Islands Meteorological Service is maintaining a tropical cyclone warning across all provinces due to Jasper. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast to affect most provinces and winds gusting up to 87 kph (54 mph) are possible across much of the country. Rough seas are expected in most coastal 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.
