South China Sea: Typhoon Yinxing tracking west-northwestward as of early Nov. 9, with close approach to Hainan Province, China, Nov. 10 /update 6

Typhoon Yinxing (known in the Philippines as Marce) is tracking west-northwestward in the northern South China Sea early Nov. 9. As of 11:00 CST, the system's center of circulation was approximately 398 km (247 miles) south-southeast of Hong Kong.

Forecast models indicate that the weather system will weaken into a tropical storm as it gradually turns to track southwestward and makes a close approach to Hainan Province, China, late Nov. 10, passing southeast of the island. Yinxing is forecast to weaken further into a tropical depression as it tracks southwestward over the South China Sea and makes landfall over Quang Ngai Province, Vietnam, early Nov. 12. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and changes could occur in the coming days.

As of early Nov. 9, the China Meteorological Administration has issued a yellow (second-lowest level on a four-tier scale) typhoon warning; strong winds are likely over the coasts of Fujian and Guangdong provinces. Authorities will likely update and extend the coverage of the weather advisories over the coming days as the storm approaches.

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.