21 Jul 2024 | 02:06 AM UTC
China: Tropical Storm 4 tracking west-southwestward over the South China Sea early July 21 /update 1
TS 4 tracks west-southwestward over South China Sea early July 21. Landfall over Hainan Province, China, likely early July 22.
Tropical Storm 4 is tracking west-southwestward over the South China Sea early July 21. As of 11:00 CST, the system's center of circulation is approximately 795 km (494 miles) southeast of Hanoi, Vietnam.
Forecast models indicate that the weather system will strengthen slightly but remain at tropical storm strength as it turns to track northwestward and makes landfall over Hainan Province, China, early July 22 before weakening over land and exiting into the Gulf of Tonkin late July 22. The storm is forecast to continue northwestward, weaken further into a tropical depression, and make another landfall over Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam, early July 24. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and changes could occur in the coming days.
The China Meteorological Administration has issued a blue typhoon warning (the lowest level on a four-tier scale); heavy rain of 10-20 cm (4-8 inches) is forecast over western coastal areas of Guangdong and most of Hainan. 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.
Inclement weather could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions, rendering some bridges or roadways impassable. Flight disruptions at airports and temporary port closures 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.
