21 Sep 2024 | 09:41 AM UTC
East China Sea: Tropical Depression 17 tracking westward to the northeast of Taiwan as of Sept. 21 /update 1
Tropical Depression 17 tracking westward in the East China Sea Sept. 21. Close approach to northern Taiwan late Sept. 21-early Sept. 22.
Tropical Depression 17 is tracking westward across the southern East China Sea to the northeast of Taiwan Sept. 21. As of 14:00 CST, the system's center of circulation was approximately 115 km (71 miles) east-northeast of Taipei, Taiwan.
Forecast models indicate that the weather system will strengthen slightly but remain a tropical depression as it makes a close approach to northern Taiwan late Sept. 21-early Sept. 22. The storm is forecast to maintain its strength as it turns to track southwestward over the Taiwan Strait Sept. 22, before making landfall near Xiamen in Fujian Province, China, during the afternoon Sept. 22. After landfall, the system is expected to weaken and then dissipate as it tracks west-southwestward over southeastern Fujian Province and into eastern Guangdong Province late Sept. 22-early Sept. 23. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and changes could occur in the coming days.
The Taiwan Central Weather Administration has issued yellow heavy rain advisories (the lowest level on a four-tier scale) across northern parts of the country Sept. 21. Strong wind advisories are in place for Kinmen and Lienchiang counties through early Sept. 23 and a short-term flash flood alert has been issued for New Taipei City as of the afternoon Sept. 21. Authorities may issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming hours and 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.
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.
