ARTICLE AD BOX
The Observatory (HKO) hoisted the T1 storm signal at 7.45am on Thursday, as a tropical depression approached China’s Hainan Island.
Photo: Observatory.“According to the present forecast, the tropical depression will intensify gradually and move in the general direction of Hainan Island today, maintaining a distance of 500 kilometres or more from Hong Kong,” the HKO said.
The tropical cyclone signal may be raised again on Friday, it said: “Due to the effect of terrain, gale force winds may affect parts of high ground briefly. Depending on the change of its intensity, the distance of its strong winds from the Pearl River Estuary and local wind conditions, the Observatory will assess the need for issuing the Strong Wind Signal, No. 3 tomorrow.”
The weather service predicts rain for the coming week, clearing next Friday.
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
- There is no warning in force
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.
English (US) ·