08 Feb 2024 | 10:00 AM UTC
French Polynesia: Moderate Tropical Storm Nat tracking eastward through western French Polynesia late Feb. 7 /update 2
Tropical Storm Nat tracking eastward in the South Pacific Ocean late Feb. 7; close approach to western French Polynesia through Feb. 8.
Moderate Tropical Storm Nat is tracking eastward across the South Pacific Ocean and is moving through the waters of western French Polynesia late Feb. 7. As of 20:00 TAHT, the storm's center of circulation was approximately 215 km (134 miles) south of Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia.
Forecast models indicate that the storm will strengthen slightly as it tracks generally eastward toward the southwestern Tuamotu archipelago in central French Polynesia through early Feb. 8. The system is expected to transition into an area of low pressure as it approaches central French Polynesia. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast; significant changes could occur in the coming days.
As of late Feb. 7, Meteo France French Polynesia has issued orange pre-cyclone alerts (the middle level on a three-tier scale) for the Leeward and Windward islands in the Society Islands and yellow cyclone warnings for Tuamotu South, Tuamotu Center South, Tuamotu Center, and Tuamotu West. Red heavy rain warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale) have been issued for the Windward Islands and orange heavy rain warnings are in place for Tuamotu Center South and Tuamotu West. Orange strong wind warnings have been issued for the Leeward Islands, the Windward Islands, Tuamotu Center North, Tuamotu Center, and Tuamotu West and orange heavy swell warnings for the Leeward Islands, the Windward Islands, Tuamotu Center, and Tuamotu West. Yellow heavy rain, thunderstorm, strong winds, and heavy swell warnings are in place across parts of the Society Islands, the Tuamptu archipelago, the Gambier Islands, and western Austral Islands.
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.
