28 Oct 2024 | 12:35 AM UTC
Philippine Sea: Tropical Storm Kong-rey tracking west-northwestward east of the Phillippines as of early Oct. 28 /update 2
TS Kong-rey tracking west-northwestward over the Philippine Sea early Oct. 28. Landfall in Taitung County, Taiwan, likely late Oct. 31.
Tropical Storm Kong-rey (known in the Philippines as Leon) is tracking west-northwestward across the Philippine Sea east of the Philippines early Oct. 28. As of 05:00 CST, the system's center of circulation was approximately 1,043 km (648 miles) east-northeast of Manila, Philippines.
Forecast models indicate that the weather system will strengthen into a typhoon early Oct. 29 while tracking northwestward toward Taiwan. Kong-rey is forecast to continue strengthening as it tracks northwestward and makes landfall over northeastern Taitung County, Taiwan, late Oct. 31. The storm is likely to weaken into a tropical storm as it turns to track northward across Taiwan and exits into the East China Sea late Nov. 1. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and changes could occur in the coming days.
As of early Oct. 28, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has issued a weather bulletin advising that the system will bring strong winds to northern and central regions and rough seas to coastal waters. A Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal (TCWS) 1 (the lowest level on a five-tier scale) is in place for eastern mainland Cagayan, eastern Isabela, and northeastern Catanduanes provinces.
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.
