20 Aug 2024 | 02:50 PM UTC
South Korea: Tropical Depression Jongdari tracking northward off the southwest coast of South Korea as of late Aug. 20 /update 2
TD Jongdari tracking northward off southwestern South Korea late Aug. 20. Landfall forecast over South Chungcheong Province early Aug. 21.
Tropical Depression Jongdari is tracking northward off the southwest coast of South Korea late Aug. 20. As of 21:00 KST, the system's center of circulation was approximately 200 km (124 miles) south-southwest of Kunsan Air Base, North Jeolla Province, South Korea.
Forecast models indicate that the weather system will weaken slightly as it tracks north-northeastward off the west coast of South Korea late Aug. 20, passing over some outlying islands. Jongdari is forecast to make landfall as a tropical depression over far northwestern South Chungcheong Province and then Incheon Metropolitan City early Aug. 21. The system is expected to weaken further as it tracks northeastward over northern Gyeonggi and far northwestern Gangwon provinces before moving into Kangwon Province in southeastern North Korea Aug. 21. The storm is expected to dissipate as it moves into the Sea of Japan late Aug. 21. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and changes could occur in the coming days.
As of late Aug. 20, the Korea Meteorological Administration has issued heavy rain, strong wind, and storm surge advisories (the lower-level on a two-tier scale) over southwestern parts of South Korea, as well as gale warnings for southern and southwestern coastal waters. 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.
