25 Oct 2024 | 02:33 AM UTC
North Pacific Ocean: Tropical Depression Kong-rey tracking westward towards Guam as of afternoon Oct. 25
TD Kong-rey tracking westward over the North Pacific Ocean afternoon Oct. 25. Close approach to Guam imminent.
Tropical Depression Kong-rey is tracking westward across the North Pacific Ocean towards Guam the afternoon of Oct. 25. As of 13:00 CHST, the system's center of circulation was approximately 59 km (37 miles) east-southeast of Andersen Air Force Base, Guam.
Forecast models indicate that the weather system will make a close approach to Guam in the coming hours, passing just north of the island before entering the Philippine Sea. Kong-rey is likely to track generally northwestward across the Philippine Sea, strengthening into a tropical storm by late Oct. 26 before strengthening further as it continues generally northwestward towards Taiwan through early Oct. 30. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and changes could occur in the coming days.
The US National Weather Service has issued a high surf advisory and rip current statement along Guam's north and east-facing reefs, a small craft advisory for the Marianas coastal waters, and a wind advisory for Tinian and Saipan.
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.
