31 Aug 2022 | 03:10 AM UTC
Philippine Sea: Tropical Depression 13 forms and is tracking northward in Philippine Sea toward Okinawa Prefecture early Aug. 31
TD 13 tracking northward in Philippine Sea early Aug. 31; close approach to Miyako Island, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan, early Sept. 2.
Event
Tropical Depression 13 has formed and is tracking northward over the Philippine Sea early Aug. 31. As of 03:00 JST, the system's center of circulation was approximately 824 km (512 miles) southeast of Kadena Airbase, Japan.
Forecast models indicate that the storm will strengthen further into a tropical storm by early Sept. 1 while turning gradually to track northwest then west through late Sept. 1, passing south of Japan's Okinawa Island. The storm is forecast to make a close approach as a tropical storm to Japan's Miyako Island, Okinawa Prefecture early Sept. 2, passing just north of the island. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and significant changes could occur in the coming days. This system follows closely after Super Typhoon Hinnamnor is forecast to transit the area.
As of early Aug. 31, the Japan Meteorological Agency has issued red (middle level on a three-tier scale) high wave warnings for Kagoshima Prefecture's Amami Region as well as most of Okinawa Prefecture. Yellow thunderstorm and gale advisories are also in place for Okinawa Prefecture and Amami Region. Officials will likely update and extend 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. 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 typhoon or 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.
