25 Sep 2024 | 02:44 AM UTC
Japan: Tropical Depression 18 tracking northwestward towards Japan as of early Sept. 25
TD 18 tracking northwestward over the Philippine Sea early Sept. 25. Close approach to Chubu and Kanto regions, Japan, late Sept. 27.
Tropical Depression 18 is tracking northwestward across the Philippine Sea towards Japan early Sept. 25. As of 12:00 JST, the system's center of circulation was approximately 900 km (559 miles) south-southwest of Yokosuka.
Forecast models indicate that the weather system will weaken slightly as it tracks northwestward through early Sept. 26 before making a sharp turn to track northwestward through early Sept. 27. The storm is likely to strengthen slightly and make a close approach as a tropical depression to the Chubu then Kanto regions late Sept. 27-afternoon Sept. 28, making landfall over Kozu-Shima in the northern Izu Islands, early Sept. 28, before tracking away from Japan through early Sept. 29. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and changes could occur in the coming days.
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has not yet issued any warnings or advisories in relation to the storm but is likely to as the storm approaches.
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.
