Hong Kong hoists T3 storm signal as Typhoo Yagi intensifies
Hong Kong Free Press
The Hong Kong Observatory issued the Strong Wing Signal No.3 at 6.40 pm on Wednesday, as Typhoon Yagi tracked westwards and intensified.
Yagi, which developed into a typhoon earlier on Wednesday, was estimated to be about 470 kilometres southeast of Hong Kong at 4 pm on Wednesday. According to the Observatory, it is forecast to move west towards Hainan Island and intensify gradually.
Depending on Yagi’s path and intensity, the government forecaster said it would “assess the need to issue higher tropical cyclone warning signal between [Thursday] afternoon and [Thursday] night.”
“Under the influence of Yagi, the weather over the coast of Guangdong will deteriorate in the next couple of days,” the Observatory said. “It will be windy with heavy squally showers and thunderstorms. Seas will be very rough with swells.”
Members of the public were advised to stay away from the shoreline and not engage in water sports.
Earlier this year, authorities warned Hongkongers against engaging in thrill-seeking activities during extreme weather – such as storm chasing, hiking or surfing – saying offenders could face jail time and a fine.
In June, Chief Executive John Lee announced that Hong Kong would no longer halt stock trading during severe weather from September 23.
Hong Kong was battered by several tropical cyclones last year, including Super Typhoon Saola, which prompted the Observatory to issue its highest storm warning for the first time in five years. A week later, record breaking rainfall drenched the city, causing widespread flooding and landslides.
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.
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.
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