South China Sea: Tropical Storm Chaba tracking northeastward in the South China Sea early June 30

Event

Tropical Storm Chaba is tracking northeastward over the South China Sea as of early June 30. As of 11:00 CST, the system's center of circulation was approximately 630 km (391 miles) west of Manila, Philippines.

Forecast models indicate that the storm will strengthen as it turns to track generally northwestward across the South China Sea, making landfall as a tropical storm over eastern Hainan Island, China early July 2. Chaba is then forecast to weaken as it makes further landfalls over China's Guangdong Province late July 2 and Guangxi Province early July 3. Following landfall in far southeastern Guangxi Province, the storm is forecast to weaken rapidly as it tracks north before dissipating in the central part of the province early July 5. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and significant changes could occur in the coming days.

As of early June 30, Vietnamese authorities have warned of strong winds and large waves in the waters from Binh Thuan to Ca Mau provinces. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the relevant weather alerts over 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.

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. 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
China Meteorological Administration
Vietnam National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting