Retrospective Analysis of Tropical Storm Maliksi (2024)
Formation and Meteorological History
Tropical Storm Maliksi (designated 2402) formed as a tropical depression over the central South China Sea, approximately 650 km south-southwest of Hong Kong, on the evening of 30 May 2024. It moved generally northward toward the coast of western Guangdong, intensifying into a tropical storm by the afternoon of 31 May. Maliksi reached its peak intensity with estimated maximum sustained winds of 65 km/h (40 mph) near its center. It made landfall over Yangjiang, Guangdong, in the early hours of 1 June, then moved north-northeastward into inland Guangdong, weakening gradually. By the evening of 1 June, Maliksi degenerated into an area of low pressure.
Impact and Damages
China (Mainland, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan)
Maliksi brought torrential rain and squalls to Guangdong province, including Guangzhou, Foshan, Maoming, and other cities. In Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Observatory issued the No. 3 Strong Wind Signal, and the storm triggered heavy squally showers, with rainfall exceeding 100 mm in parts of the New Territories. A maximum storm surge of 0.51 m was recorded at Tai Po Kau. A female pedestrian was injured by a fallen tree in Ma On Shan. Shipping services in Guangzhou and Shenzhen were partially suspended. In Macau, the government issued Typhoon Signal No. 3 and warned of persistent heavy showers and possible flooding in low-lying areas, with rainfall potentially exceeding 100 mm. Taiwan experienced heavy rainfall, with over 783,000 people exposed to 100–250 mm of rain.
Japan
Japan experienced peripheral rainfall, with about 3,169 people exposed to tropical storm-force winds and 852 people exposed to 100–250 mm of rain. No major damage was reported.
Philippines
While Maliksi did not directly hit the Philippines, the storm's outer bands may have contributed to localized rainfall. However, no significant impacts were recorded.
Economic Losses
According to the Hypothetical Hurricanes Wiki, Maliksi caused $35 billion in damages (2024 USD), making it the costliest Pacific typhoon on record. However, this figure appears to be from a hypothetical source and should be treated with caution. Official damage assessments are still pending.
Government Response and Relief Efforts
China
- The China Meteorological Administration issued timely warnings and tracked the storm's path.
- Local governments in Guangdong activated emergency response plans, suspended shipping services, and advised residents to stay indoors.
- The Macau SAR Government issued Typhoon Signal No. 3 and a "blue" storm surge warning, urging precautions against flooding.
- Hong Kong's Observatory issued No. 1 and No. 3 signals, and the Strong Monsoon Signal after the storm.
International
- The Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System (GDACS) rated the storm as "Green" (low humanitarian impact), with maximum winds of 97 km/h and rainfall up to 344 mm.
- No international relief efforts were required due to the storm's relatively low intensity.
Conclusion
Tropical Storm Maliksi, though not a major typhoon, caused significant disruption in southern China, particularly in Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macau. Its heavy rainfall led to localized flooding and transportation disruptions. The storm highlighted the importance of early warning systems and coordinated government response in mitigating impacts.