The Observatory has hoisted the T8 storm signal for the first time this year, as Typhoon Talim skirts the city.

Typhoon Talim rain Victoria Harbour Tsim Sha Tsui
The Hong Kong Observatory hoisted the T8 storm signal for the first time this year on July 17, 2023, as Typhoon Talim skirts the city. Photo: Kyle Lam/HKFP.

The signal will remain in force until at least 4pm: “Whether the Signal No.8 will remain in force thereafter will depend on Talim’s speed of departure from the Pearl River Estuary and the change in wind strength over the territory, as well as how persistent the gusts associated with the rain bands of Talim will affect Hong Kong,” the Observatory said.

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The storm is predicted to intensify during Monday, moving within 300 kilometres south-southwest of Hong Kong, it said.

Tropical Cyclone Talim's movement
Tropical Cyclone Talim’s movement on Monday. Photo: Observatory.

The T8 signal was raised at 12.40am but, according to the government, there have been no reports of landslides, flooding or residents seeking medical attention as of 7.15am. However, there have been three reports of fallen trees.

Twenty-nine temporary shelters have been opened, and 92 people have sought refuge.

typhoon talim
Photo: Observatory.

Though Talim is expected to leave the region by mid-week, wet weather is predicted to continue into the weekend: “[U]nder the influence of a broad trough of low pressure over the central and northern parts of the South China Sea, there will still be showers over the coast of Guangdong. An anticyclone aloft will strengthen towards the weekend, the weather will improve slightly over Guangdong.”

Typhoon Talim rain Victoria Harbour Tsim Sha Tsui
The Hong Kong Observatory hoisted the T8 storm signal for the first time this year on July 17, 2023, as Typhoon Talim skirts the city. Photo: Kyle Lam/HKFP.

Typhoon Signal 8

When the No. 8 signal is issued, gale or storm force winds are affecting, or expected to affect, Hong Kong.

  • The Hong Kong Observatory will make a special announcement within two hours before the signal is hoisted. Most offices and businesses will then close and people without special reasons for staying out are expected to go home.
  • All school classes and most government services will halt.
  • Ferry services will give notice as to when they will stop running, while most bus routes will halt within two hours after the signal is issued.
  • MTR trains will run normally unless weather conditions worsen.
  • Citizens should return home or stay in a safe place, and avoid low-lying areas likely to be flooded.
  • Temporary shelters will be opened in government buildings for people with no safe refuge.

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Tom founded Hong Kong Free Press in 2015 and is the editor-in-chief. In addition to editing, he is responsible for managing the newsroom and company - including fundraising, recruitment and overseeing HKFP's web presence and ethical guidelines.

He has a BA in Communications and New Media from Leeds University and an MA in Journalism from the University of Hong Kong. He previously led an NGO advocating for domestic worker rights, and has contributed to the BBC, Deutsche Welle, Al-Jazeera and others.