21 Sep 2024 | 12:56 AM UTC
East China Sea: Tropical Depression 17 tracking northwestward away from Okinawa Prefecture as of early Sept. 21
TD 17 tracking northwestward in the East China Sea early Sept. 21. Close approach to Taiwan afternoon Sept. 21.
Tropical Depression 17 is tracking northwestward across the East China Sea away from Okinawa Prefecture, Japan, early Sept. 21. As of 11:00 CST, the system's center of circulation was approximately 424 km (264 miles) west-southwest of Kadena Air Base, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan.
Forecast models indicate that the weather system will strengthen slightly but remain at tropical depression strength as it makes a close approach to northern Taiwan the afternoon of Sept. 21. The storm is forecast to weaken as it gradually turns to track southwestward, around the northern tip of Taiwan through early Sept. 23, entering the Taiwan Strait the afternoon of Sept. 22. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and changes could occur in the coming days.
The Taiwan Central Weather Administration has issued orange extremely heavy rain advisories (the second lowest level on a four-tier scale) across Miaoli County and yellow heavy rain advisories over Taichung City.
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.
