The Hong Kong Observatory hoisted the T3 storm signal at 4:40am on Friday as Tropical Cyclone Lionrock closed in.
Heavy rain and strong winds are expected into the weekend as the storm edges closer to the southern Chinese coast.
“Under the combined effect of the northeast monsoon and Lionrock, it will be windy with heavy rain and squalls over the coast of Guangdong from Friday to Sunday at first. A dry continental airstream will bring generally fine weather to southern China early next week,” the Observatory said.
Winds with mean speeds of 41 – 62 kilometres per hour are expected.
“Unless Lionrock strengthens significantly further or adopts a track even closer to Hong Kong, the chance of issuing higher Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal today is relatively low,” the Observatory added.
Under the T3 Signal, kindergarten classes and some special schools are suspended. The Marine Department has warned boat owners to remain alert.
