31 May 2024 | 03:37 AM UTC
China: Tropical Depression 2 tracking north-northeastward over the South China Sea early May 31
TD 2 tracks north-northeastward over South China Sea early May 31. Landfall over Guangdong Province, China, likely late May 31.
Tropical Depression 2 is tracking north-northeastward over the South China Sea early May 31. As of 11:00 CST, the system's center of circulation is approximately 324 km (201 miles) south-southwest of Hong Kong.
Forecast models indicate that the weather system will strengthen slightly and make landfall as a tropical depression over south-central Guangdong Province late May 31. After landfall, the storm is likely to weaken rapidly as it turns to track northeastwards and dissipates near the border with Jiangxi Province late June 1. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and changes could occur in the coming days.
The China Meteorological Administration has issued a yellow rainstorm warning (second lowest level on a four-tier scale) across Fujian, Guangdong, Hainan, southern and eastern Jiangxi, and central and southern Zhejiang provinces. The heaviest rainfall of 10-20 cm (4-8 inches) is forecast over southwestern coastal and northern Fujian, coastal Guangdong, northeastern and southwestern Hainan, and southern Zhejiang provinces. The Hong Kong Observatory has issued a No. 1 Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal and thunderstorm warnings. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as the storm approaches.
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, rendering some bridges or roadways impassable. Flight disruptions at 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.
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 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 authorities 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.
