The Hong Kong Observatory issued the Strong Wind Signal No.3 at around 4.20 p.m. on Monday as severe tropical storm Nalgae edged closer to the city.
“Under the combined effect of Nalgae and the northeast monsoon, strong winds are expected to prevail,” the Observatory said, adding that there would be occasional gales on high ground. “The Strong Wind Signal No.3 will remain in force at least until noon tomorrow,” it added.
Members of the public have been advised to stay away from the shoreline and avoid water sports as the seas are rough with swells. Hikers or those working outdoors should also remain alert, the Observatory said.
Nalgae was about 640 kilometres south-southeast of Hong Kong on Monday afternoon and is forecast to move towards the northern waters of the South China Sea.
Nalgae will edge closer to the city on Wednesday and Thursday, and although it is expected to weaken gradually, “the degree of weakening remain[s] rather uncertain,” the Observatory said.
A major banking summit is scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday. The event was announced in this year’s budget and is supposed to signal that Hong Kong is back in business as an international finance centre. There is a chance that Nalgae could disrupt proceedings if a higher storm signal is hoisted.
Typhoon Signal 3
The No. 3 signal warns of strong winds affecting, or expected to affect, Hong Kong within 12 hours.
- Classes of kindergartens and schools for children with physical or intellectual disabilities will be suspended.
- Scheduled ferry services may be cancelled as conditions worsen. Bus and MTR services are not affected.
- Residents should secure loose objects like flower pots or drying racks, and prepare for possible flooding in low-lying areas.
Observatory signals currently in force
- Yellow Fire Danger Warning was issued at 06:00 HKT (4 Jan 2026)
Climate crisis
Tropical cyclones – which get their energy from warm ocean water – are strengthening and become ever more destructive because of warming seas. Over 90 per cent of excess heat in the atmosphere is ending up in oceans, according to NASA, as rising greenhouse gases prevent it from escaping to space.
