23 Dec 2024 | 03:15 AM UTC
South China Sea: Tropical Depression 28 tracking northwestward toward southern Vietnam as of early Dec. 23
TD 28 tracking northwestward across South China Sea early Dec. 23. Landfall over Tra Vinh Province, Vietnam, likely early Dec. 26.
Tropical Depression 28 is tracking northwestward in the South China Sea towards southern Vietnam early Dec. 23. As of 10:00 ICT, the system's center of circulation was 656 km (407 miles) east of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
Forecast models indicate that the storm will strengthen briefly into a tropical storm over the coming hours before weakening back into a tropical depression as it turns to track west-southwestward through late Dec. 24. The storm is forecast to weaken further as it continues west-southwestward and makes landfall over Tra Vinh Province, Vietnam early Dec. 26. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast; changes could occur in the coming days.
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.
