Tropical Storm In-Fa (known in the Philippines as Fabian) is tracking westward in the Philippine Sea on July 20. As of 09:00 JST, the system’s center of circulation was approximately 375 km (233 miles) southeast of Kadena Air Base, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. Experts predict it will strengthen into a typhoon today and stay on the current path heading west toward the Miyako Islands in southern Okinawa Prefecture. In-Fa will gradually intensify and shift northwestward July 23, potentially making landfall near Yilan, Taiwan, early July 24. The system should begin to weaken significantly after it hits land as it enters the Taiwan Strait. A subsequent landfall is likely near Fuzhou, Fujian Province, in mainland China early July 25. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and minor changes could occur in the coming days.
Government Advisories
As of 06:00 JST July 20, the Japan Meteorological Administration has issued red warnings (the second-highest level on a three-tier scale) for high waves for Okinawa through at least July 22. Authorities will likely issue new warnings or update existing advisories throughout the system’s progression in the coming days. Weather warnings could remain active even after the storm’s immediate threat has diminished, as some areas may still be highly susceptible to rain-induced hazards; this is especially true in areas previously impacted by tropical systems earlier this season. The possibility of localized evacuations due to Tropical Storm In-Fa cannot be discounted if weather conditions prove particularly hazardous.
Hazardous Conditions
Tropical Storm In-Fa will bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and storm surge across the affected area through at least July 25. Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near streams, creeks, rivers, and urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream of large reservoirs could experience flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Rain-induced landslides are possible in steeply sloped terrains. Flooding could isolate some communities for several days. Prolonged swells and storm surge generated by the system will likely result in coastal flooding as the system approaches land. A persistent onshore flow could make it difficult for the surge to recede and water levels to decrease in coastal river catchments.
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