Coral Sea: Tropical Low Gina tracking south-southwestwards in the Coral Sea as of May 20 /update 3

Event

Tropical Low Gina is tracking south-southwestwards in the Coral Sea as of May 20 after passing Vanuatu. As of 14:00 VUT, the storm's center of circulation was approximately 85 km (53 miles) southwest of Port Vila, Vanuatu. Forecast models indicate the system will maintain its strength as it turns to track generally south to southeastward across the Coral Sea before making landfall over Lifou Island, New Caledonia, early May 22. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast; changes could occur in the coming days.

As of May 20, the Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-Hazards Department has rescinded all tropical cyclone and severe weather warnings. Marine warnings for strong winds with rough to very rough seas and low to moderate swells remain in place for all of Vanuatu's waters through at least May 21.

Meteo France New Caledonia has warned that although the storm is weakening, conditions are deteriorating in the territory. Stormy precipitation with accumulations of 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) is likely across the Loyalty Islands. Yellow strong wind warnings have been issued for most of the territory except for the far southern and far northern regions as well as the Isle of Pines. Yellow heavy rain and thunderstorm warnings are in place across the Loyalty Islands. Authorities will likely issue new warnings or update existing advisories throughout the system's progression in the coming days.

Heavy rain over Vanuatu resulted in the Prima River overflowing; residents along the river were evacuated early May 20. Authorities have closed all schools in Port Vila. Portions of the Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) are flooded; several flight services have been canceled or rescheduled.

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.

The inclement weather could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions and render some bridges or roadways impassable. Flight disruptions at regional airports and temporary closures of ports 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.

Advice

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.

Resources

Joint Typhoon Warning Center
Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-Hazards Department
Meteo France New Caledonia