17 Sep 2024 | 02:59 AM UTC
Philippine Sea: Tropical Storm Pulasan tracking west-northwestward towards Okinawa Prefecture as of early Sept. 17
TS Pulasan tracking west-northwestward in the Philippine Sea early Sept. 17. Close approach to Okinawa Prefecture, Japan, late Sept. 18.
Tropical Storm Pulasan is tracking west-northwestward across the Philippine Sea towards Okinawa Prefecture, Japan, early Sept. 17. As of 12:00 JST, the system's center of circulation was approximately 1,428 km (887 miles) southeast of Kadena Air Base, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan.
Forecast models indicate that the weather system will strengthen slightly and make a close approach to Okinawa Prefecture, Japan, late Sept. 18, passing just south of Okinawa Main Island. Pulasan is forecast to weaken slightly but remain at tropical storm strength as it tracks northwestward across the East China Sea toward southeastern China through Sept. 19 before making another landfall over Zhejiang Province early Sept. 20. After landfall, Pulasan is forecast to weaken rapidly and dissipate as it enters far northeastern Jiangxi Province early Sept. 21. 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 landslides, flooding, lightning, tornadoes, strong winds, and high waves across the Amami and Okinawa regions over the coming days. The heaviest rainfall of 15 cm (6 inches) in the Amami region and 10 cm (4 inches) in the Okinawa region are forecast Sept. 18.
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.
