18 Nov 2024 | 11:56 PM UTC
South China Sea: Tropical Storm Man-yi tracking westward toward Hainan Province as of early Nov. 19 /update 12
Tropical Storm Man-yi tracking westward across South China Sea early Nov. 19. Close approach to Hainan Province, China, early Nov. 20.
Tropical Storm Man-yi (known in the Philippines as Pepito) is tracking westward in the South China Sea away from the west coast of Luzon in the Philippines early Nov. 19, after having made landfall over Catanduanes Island late Nov. 16 and Dipaculao in Aurora Province afternoon of Nov. 17. As of 05:00 CST, the system's center of circulation was 435 km (270 miles) south-southeast of Hong Kong.
Forecast models indicate that the storm will weaken further into a tropical depression as it turns to track west-southwestward across the South China Sea Nov. 19 and pass south of Hainan Province, China, early Nov. 20 before dissipating as it approaches central Vietnam the afternoon of Nov. 20. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast; changes could occur in the coming days.
The China Meteorological Administration has issued a blue (lowest level on a four-tier scale) typhoon warning; strong winds are forecast over the coastal areas of Fujian, Guangdong, and Hainan 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 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.
