HK hoists No 8 signal as typhoon approaches

The Hong Kong Observatory issued this year’s first No 8 storm signal on Monday night as Typhoon Nida approached the city.

According to Monday night’s forecast, the center of the storm will come within 100 kilometers of the city to the northeast. The No 8 signal is expected to remain in effect for most of Tuesday morning.

As of10:30 pm on Monday, 156 flights were canceled, according to the Airport Authority.

Cathay Pacific and Dragonair announced on Monday afternoon that all departures and arrivals to the Hong Kong International Airport between 10 pm Monday and 2 pm Tuesday will be suspended due to the storm.

Classes at all schools were suspended on Monday.

The government has activated its interdepartmental emergency monitoring mechanism.

The Marine Department has informed fishermen to secure their vessels at safe locations. The Fire Services Department and the police force have prepared for emergency rescues. The Home Affairs Department, in cooperation with the Social Welfare Department, has opened temporary shelters for people in need. The Drainage Services Department has inspected flooding black spots, checked and cleaned drains.

A No 8 signal means gales or storm-force winds are blowing at sea level, at sustained speeds of 63 to 117 kilometers per hour, and gusts may exceed 180 km/h.

Based on Nida’s projected trajectory, it will move northwest at 25 km/h toward the coast of Guangdong province.

In neighboring cities, Shenzhen activated a red alert and will suspend classes at all schools on Tuesday. Guangzhou authorities called off all work and classes in the city on Tuesday. All ferry and some train services will also stop in Shenzhen and Guangzhou.

(CHINA DAILY)