The Hong Kong Observatory issued the Standby Signal No.1 at 5.40 pm on Tuesday, as Tropical Cyclone Yagi neared the city.
“With Yagi edging closer to the coast of southern China gradually, winds will strengthen over the region later this week,” the Observatory said on Tuesday, adding that the likelihood of the Strong Wind Signal No. 3 being raised was “relatively high.”
The weather in Hong Kong is forecast to deteriorate in the latter part of this week, with the Observatory warning of “heavy squally showers” and rough seas, and reminding the public to take note of the latest weather forecast.
Typhoon Signal 1
The No.1 signal is the “Standby” signal. It is issued when a tropical cyclone is centred within about 800 kilometres of Hong Kong and may affect the territory.
- All schools and government services remain open.
- All public transport remains in service.
- The government advice is to take the tropical cyclone into account when planning activities and be wary of potential strong winds over offshore waters.
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.
