The Hong Kong Observatory says it will issue the T3 Strong Wind Signal between 3 pm and 5 pm on Thursday as Tropical Cyclone Saola moves towards the city.
Should the city hoist the T8 or T10 signal on Friday, the stock market and schools could close, and most transport will be limited. It would be the second time this year that the city shuts down owing to a typhoon.
Saola will be nearest to the city on Friday and Saturday, the Observatory said: “The weather over the coast of Guangdong will deteriorate. It will be windy with frequent heavy squally showers and storm surge. Seas will be high with swells.”
The T1 storm signal was issued on Wednesday evening and remained in effect during Thursday lunchtime.
The weather will remain hot and wet during the coming week. “Under the influence of a broad trough of low pressure, there will still be showers over the coast of southern China early next week,” the Observatory predicts, as another storm – Tropical Cyclone Haikui – moves towards Japan’s Ryukyu Islands.
Gov’t on alert
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee said in a Facebook post on Thursday morning that the government would hold a cross-departmental press conference to discuss precautions as the typhoon nears.
“I remind all [departments] to heighten their awareness and make proper arrangements to be prepared for worst-case scenarios,” he wrote.
At 6 am on Thursday, China’s National Meteorological Centre issued a red warning – the highest typhoon warning. According to the Guardian, wind speeds at 9 am were clocked at 209km/h.
What happens during a T3 storm?
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.
