On December 22, 2024, reports surfaced from the Guangdong Provincial Emergency Management Office concerning the recent intensification of a tropical disturbance located over the southern South China Sea. The disturbance has escalated to Tropical Depression status and is predicted to strengthen to become Typhoon Number 26 within the next 24 hours.
According to the same reports, the depression’s center is currently positioned around 1,140 kilometers southeast of Sansha City (specifically on Yongxing Island, part of the Xisha Islands) with winds reaching speeds of 7 levels or about 15 meters per second. The system is expected to move north-westward at approximately 20 kilometers per hour, gaining strength and potentially heading toward Vietnam's southeast coast.
The Guangdong Provincial Disaster Prevention Office has urged localities to prioritize typhoon defense measures. They stressed the importance of sea safety, especially concerning the potential risks posed by the incoming storm. Reports suggest heightened alert protocols must be enforced to safeguard fishermen and maritime activities.
The warnings indicate not only possible wind risks but also temperature variations across Guangdong Province from December 22 to 25. A gradual temperature increase is expected, yet significant night and day temperature discrepancies will be felt, particularly with the northern counties experiencing lows of 2 to 5 degrees Celsius.
On the same day, Hainan meteorologists confirmed the issuance of grade four storm warnings which forecast gale force winds ranging from level 6 to 8 over various ocean areas, including the Nansha Islands. Winds could reach up to level 9 or 10, necessitating precautions by local fishing and shipping activities.
Following earlier observations, state media reported the tropical low-pressure center was spotted at about 930 kilometers from Sansha City later the same day. Although current weather conditions offer support for the cyclone's development due to high sea temperatures and weak vertical wind shear, uncertainties remain concerning its exact path and strength as it moves westward toward Vietnam.
Historical weather patterns indicate December is not entirely off-limits for tropical cyclone formation, and this year's system could mark the late-season activity reminiscent of Typhoon Soulik, which formed around the same time back in December 2000.
The situation presents unique challenges as the region’s mariners must navigate not only the potential impact of the storm but also the cool air mass combining with the cyclone, bringing about nuanced weather phenomena. Emergency services are on standby, readying themselves with equipment pre-positioning and preparing for quick response tactics should timely action be warranted.
Among the local governments, communication chains are active, ensuring sea-going vessels are warned and advised to steer clear of affected areas. Continual monitoring, along with data-driven forecasts, is anticipated to guide decision-making processes, particularly during this unpredictable period as communities brace for possible cyclonic activity.
With storms such as these being of significant concern to coastal dwellers, the respective authorities call for vigilance, emphasizing the importance of personal safety and preparedness measures. For many, this will be another test of the region’s response capabilities to natural disasters, especially as meteorological experts keep close watch on how this system may develop.
