Philippine Sea: Tropical Storm 18 tracking northwestward as of Sept. 22

Event

Tropical Storm 18, named Karding in the Philippines, is tracking northwestward over the Philippine Sea as of Sept. 22. As of 14:00, the system's center of circulation was approximately 1,019 km (633 miles) north-northwest of Yap, Micronesia.

Forecast models indicate that the storm system will strengthen as it turns to track generally westward Sept. 23-25, before making landfall over northern Luzon Island in the Philippines late Sept. 25. The system is expected to generally maintain its strength as it tracks west-northwestward across northern Luzon and exits into the South China Sea early Sept. 26. The storm is then expected to strengthen into a Typhoon as it tracks west-northwestward across the South China Sea Sept. 26-27, making a close approach to Hainan Island Sept. 27. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and significant changes could occur over the coming hours.

As of Sept. 22, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has not issued any weather warnings in relation to the storm. However, the administration has warned of strong winds and heavy rainfall over northern and central Luzon from late Sept. 24 or early Sept. 25. Authorities will likely issue new warnings or update existing advisories in the coming days as the storm approaches.

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.

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.

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
Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA)