Tropical Storm Pakhar (2017)

Tropical Storm Pakhar (2017), known in the Philippines as Tropical Storm Jolina, was a relatively weak but impactful tropical cyclone that affected portions of the Philippines, Hong Kong, and South China in late August 2017.

Meteorological History:

Pakhar originated from a tropical disturbance located east of the Philippines. It gradually strengthened into a tropical depression and was assigned the international designation 1714. Soon after, it was named Tropical Storm Pakhar by the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA). Pakhar tracked generally northwestward, passing over the Philippines as a moderate tropical storm. After emerging into the South China Sea, Pakhar briefly intensified before making landfall near Taishan, Guangdong province, China. It rapidly weakened inland, dissipating shortly thereafter.

Impact:

In the Philippines, as Tropical Storm Jolina, Pakhar brought heavy rainfall and strong winds, causing flooding, landslides, and power outages in several areas. Damage to agriculture and infrastructure was reported. Evacuations were conducted in vulnerable areas.

Hong Kong experienced strong winds and heavy rainfall as Pakhar approached and made landfall nearby. The Hong Kong Observatory issued strong wind signals, and numerous flights were cancelled or delayed. Some low-lying areas experienced flooding.

In mainland China, Pakhar caused significant disruption with heavy rainfall and strong winds. Millions of people were affected, and evacuations were carried out. Transportation networks were impacted, and economic losses were substantial, primarily due to agricultural damage.

Name Retirement:

The name Pakhar was not retired by the World Meteorological Organization, and it remains on the naming list for tropical cyclones in the western North Pacific Ocean.