22 Sep 2024 | 08:30 AM UTC
China: Tropical Depression 17 tracking westward after making landfall over Fujian Province Sept. 22 /update 3
TD 17 tracking westward after making landfall over Fujian Province, China, Sept. 22. Adverse weather likely through at least Sept. 23.
Tropical Depression 17 is tracking westward over southeastern Fujian Province Sept. 22, having made landfall near Quanzhou in the past few hours. As of 14:00 CST, the system's center of circulation was approximately 304 km (189 miles) west of Taipei, Taiwan. Forecast models indicate that the weather system will weaken and dissipate as it tracks west-northwestward over western Fujian Province Sept. 22-23.
The China Meteorological Administration has issued a yellow rainstorm warning (the second lowest level on a four-tier scale) across parts of southeastern China Sept. 22-23. Heavy-to-torrential rainfall is expected across the region, with the highest rainfall amounts of around 25-27 cm (9.8-10.6 inches) expected in eastern coastal areas of Fujian Province.
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 regional 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 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.
