11 Nov 2024 | 03:43 AM UTC
N. Pacific Ocean: Tropical Storm Man-yi tracking southwestward, east of Northern Mariana Islands, as of the afternoon Nov. 11 /update 1
TS Man-yi tracking southwestward in North Pacific Ocean Nov. 11. Close approach to Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands early Nov. 13.
Tropical Storm Man-yi is tracking southwestward in the North Pacific Ocean the afternoon of Nov. 11. As of 13:00 ChST, the storm is located 868 km (540 miles) east of Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands. Forecast models indicate that the storm will track generally westward as it strengthens further through early Nov. 12 before weakening into a tropical depression and make a close approach to Saipan in the Northern Mariana Islands early Nov. 13, passing south of the island. The storm is then forecast to strengthen back into a tropical storm as it tracks west-southwestward away from Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands through early Nov. 15 before turning to track northwestward towards the northern Philippines through early Nov. 16. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast; changes could occur in the coming days.
Authorities have issued a special weather statement for strong winds, locally heavy rainfall possibly causing flash flooding, and hazardous surf and marine conditions across Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. A rip current statement is in place over the east-facing reefs of the Marianas through the afternoon of Nov. 12, while a small craft advisory is in effect over Guam coastal waters through the evening of Nov. 11. Officials will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as the storm progresses.
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 cyclone 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.
