The Hong Kong Observatory hoisted the T3 Strong Wind Signal at 3:40pm on Thursday as Tropical Cyclone Saola closed in on the city.
The Observatory said in the afternoon that it would hoist the T8 signal on Friday.
“Local weather is expected to deteriorate significantly, with heavy squally showers and violent winds, during the day tomorrow,” it said. Schools will be suspended on Friday morning.
Sun Ferry announced it would suspend its ferry routes early, affecting routes including those between Cheung Chau and Mui Wo as well as Peng Chau and Mui Wo.
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 has shut shut down due to a typhoon. Government officials are set to meet the press at 4:30 pm.
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.”
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee said in a Facebook post on Thursday morning 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.
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.
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.
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