China: Tropical Depression Eight tracking west-northwestward over South China Sea early Aug. 4

Event

Tropical Depression Eight is west-northwestward over the South China Sea early Aug. 4. As of 11:00 CST, the system's center of circulation was approximately 94 km (59 miles) east-northeast of Hong Kong.

Forecast models indicate that the storm will make landfall over south-central Guangdong Province over the coming hours. The system will weaken rapidly while tracking northwestward across Guangdong Province and dissipate over far eastern Guangxi province early Aug. 5. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and significant changes could occur in the coming days.

As of early Aug. 4, authorities have not yet issued any weather warnings in relation to the storm. Officials could issue or update the coverage of the relevant weather alerts over the coming days as the system progresses.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and those with easily overwhelmed drainage systems. Localized evacuations, flash flooding, and landslides are possible if weather conditions prove hazardous.

The inclement weather could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions, rendering some bridges or roadways impassable. Flight disruptions at regional airports and temporary closures of ports are also possible. Raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters pose 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