05 Dec 2023 | 12:02 PM UTC
Solomon Sea: Tropical Cyclone Jasper tracking westward south of the Solomon Islands as of late Dec. 5
TC Jasper tracking westward in the Solomon Sea as of late Dec. 5. Adverse weather ongoing in the Solomon Islands as the system moves away.
Tropical Cyclone Jasper has formed in the Solomon Sea, having passed over the Solomon Islands as a tropical low, and is tracking westward late Dec. 5. As of 22:00 SBT, the storm's center of circulation was approximately 370 km (230 miles) west of Honiara, Solomon Islands.
Forecast models indicate that the storm will strengthen into a Category 3 tropical cyclone as it tracks generally south-southwestward across the Solomon Sea late Dec. 5-early Dec. 7, before passing to the southeast of Milne Bay Province in Papua New Guinea through Dec. 7, remaining around 170 km (106 miles) offshore. The system is expected to briefly strengthen into a Category 4 tropical cyclone as it tracks southwestward over the Coral Sea Dec. 8, before weakening into a Category 2 tropical cyclone by Dec. 10 as it begins to approach the east 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. 5, the Solomon Islands Meteorological Service has issued a special weather bulletin regarding the system, warning that heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast in most provinces. Winds gusting over 61 kph (38 mph) are possible across much of the country and rough seas are expected in most coastal waters. 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.
