13 Sep 2024 | 12:30 AM UTC
Philippine Sea: Tropical Storm Bebinca tracking northwestward toward Amami Islands as of early Sept. 13 /update 4
TS Bebinca tracking northwestward in the Philippine Sea early Sept. 13. Close approach to Amami Islands, Japan, late Sept. 14.
Tropical Storm Bebinca is tracking northwestward across the Philippine Sea towards the Amami Islands early Sept. 13. As of 06:00 JST, the system's center of circulation was approximately 574 km (357 miles) northwest of Iwo Jima, Japan.
Forecast models indicate that the weather system will strengthen as it continues northwestward and makes a close approach to Minamidaitojima, Japan, early Sept. 14, passing just northeast of the island. Bebinca is likely to track northwestward and make another close approach to the Amami Islands later the same day. Bebinca is forecast to strengthen into a typhoon as it tracks northwestward across the East China Sea toward southeastern China through Sept. 15 before making landfall over Zhejiang Province early Sept. 16. After landfall, Bebinca is forecast to weaken rapidly into a tropical depression as it tracks west-northwestward across Anhui Province through early Sept. 18. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and changes could occur in the coming days.
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has warned of strong winds and rough seas across the Amami and Okinawa regions through Sept. 15. The highest waves of up to 9 meters (30 feet) and the heaviest rainfall of up to 15 cm (6 inches) are forecast Sept. 14. Lesser rainfall and smaller waves are likely Sept. 15.
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.
