10 Sep 2024 | 02:49 PM UTC
Guam: Tropical Depression 14 tracking northwestward toward Guam as of late Sept. 10 /update 1
TD 14 tracking northwestward in the South Pacific Ocean late Sept. 10. Forecast to pass over southwestern Guam early Sept. 11.
Tropical Depression 14 is tracking northwestward across the South Pacific Ocean and is approaching Guam late Sept. 10. As of 22:00 ChST, the system's center of circulation was approximately 124 km (77 miles) southeast of Navsta, Guam.
Forecast models indicate that the weather system will pass close to or over the southwestern tip of Guam early Sept. 11, before strengthening into a tropical storm as it tracks northwestward away from the island Sept. 11. The system is forecast to strengthen into a typhoon as it tracks north-northwestward and then northwestward across the Philippine Sea Sept. 12-14 before making another landfall over Okinawa Main Island, Japan, early Sept. 15. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and changes could occur in the coming days.
As of Sept. 10, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a tropical storm warning across Guam, Rota, Tinian, and Saipan, as well as flood watches, high surf advisories, and coastal flood advisories across the islands.
Governor Lou Leon Guerrero has placed Guam under Condition of Readiness 3 (COR3) due to the approaching storm. Under COR3, residents are advised to ensure objects are secured and have supplies on hand, such as food, gasoline, and cash. Schools have been closed, and Maria Ulloa Elementary School in Dededo has been opened as a shelter for residents who need to seek refuge.
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 and render 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.
