08 Aug 2024 | 02:58 AM UTC
Japan: Tropical Storm Maria tracking northeastward across North Pacific Ocean as of early Aug. 8
TS Maria tracks northeastward over North Pacific Ocean early Aug. 8. Close approach to eastern Honshu, Japan, likely Aug. 10-13.
Tropical Storm Maria is tracking northeastward across the North Pacific Ocean early Aug. 8. As of 12:00 JST, the system's center of circulation was approximately 1,063 km (661 miles) south-southeast of Yokosuka, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan.
Forecast models indicate that the weather system will strengthen into a typhoon through early Aug. 9 before gradually turning to track northward and making a close approach to eastern Honshu, Japan, early Aug. 10. Maria is forecast to weaken back into a tropical storm early Aug. 11 as it tracks northward just off the coast of eastern Japan through Aug. 11 before turning to track northwestward towards Hokkaido Prefecture through early Aug. 13. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and changes could occur in the coming days.
As of early Aug. 8, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has issued a bulletin warning of rainfall of 8 cm (3 inches), possible landslides, strong winds, lightning, and large waves in the Ogasawara Islands from the evening of Aug. 8. Authorities will likely issue new warnings or update existing advisories throughout the system's progression in the coming days.
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 and render 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. 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 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.
