The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said tropical depression Igme left the Philippine forecast area (PAR) on September 21.
At 4:00 p.m. on September 21, the center of the tropical depression was at approximately 25.7 degrees north latitude, 122.5 degrees east longitude, 550 km north of Itbayat, Batanes, Philippines. The strongest wind near the center of the tropical depression was 45 km/h, gusting to 55 km/h, moving northwest at 10 km/h.
The tropical depression approached the northern part of Taiwan on the afternoon of September 21. The tropical depression is forecast to enter the Taiwan Strait on the afternoon of September 22 and weaken as it gradually moves southwest, around the northern tip of Taiwan, until early September 23.
According to the typhoon forecast of the Taiwan Meteorological Administration (CWA), there is still some uncertainty about the path and intensity of the tropical depression and changes may occur in the coming days.
The tropical depression is unlikely to strengthen into a typhoon as it approaches Taiwan, but will merge with the low-pressure belt, bringing significant rainfall for at least five days, starting on September 20, the CWA said.
CWA specifically warns Pingtung County, Kaohsiung City and Taitung City of the possibility of heavy rain.
CWA weather forecaster Wu Der-rong noted that the "monsoon low pressure circulation" will move north, bringing thunderstorms and severe weather until September 24. Rainfall will ease on September 25 and 26.
Prolonged heavy rainfall can cause flooding in low-lying areas and areas where drainage systems are easily overwhelmed. If conditions become hazardous, local evacuations, flash floods and landslides may occur.
Severe weather can cause disruption to local businesses, transportation and utilities, with some bridges or roads becoming impassable. Flights may be delayed or cancelled, and ports may be temporarily closed.
Stagnant water during and after floods increases the risk of insect- and water-borne diseases such as dengue fever, cholera, and malaria. Exposure to raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters poses a serious health threat.
