HONG KONG — The city remains firmly in the grip of Typhoon Saola’s relentless onslaught, as gale-force winds continue to batter the region. The Hong Kong Observatory’s latest Tropical Cyclone Warning Bulletin paints a picture of perseverance in the face of a powerful storm.
As dawn breaks, the No. 8 Southeast Gale or Storm Signal remains in force, a stark reminder of the imminent danger posed by this tempest. Winds with mean speeds of 63 kilometers per hour or more are expected to persist from the southeast quarter, leaving many areas vulnerable to Saola’s wrath.
Saola, currently situated approximately 150 kilometers west-southwest of Hong Kong, continues to chart its course west-southwest at a determined pace of about 14 kilometers per hour. While the storm moves away from the city, its impact is still keenly felt, with gale-force winds sweeping through numerous locations. The rainband accompanying Saola unleashes squally heavy showers across the territory, necessitating the continuation of the Gale or Storm Signal No. 8 until at least noon. Vigilance remains paramount, and precautions should not be relaxed prematurely.
The rainband accompanying Saola unleashes squally heavy showers across the territory, necessitating the continuation of the Gale or Storm Signal No. 8 until at least noon.
The threat of storm surge looms large, driving water levels to alarming heights. Between 9 a.m. and noon today, Tai O and Tsim Bei Tsui will witness a surge of approximately 3 meters above the chart datum, underscoring the need for heightened caution and preparedness in these vulnerable coastal areas.
The seas surrounding Hong Kong continue to churn with ferocious intensity, generating treacherous swells that pose a significant risk to all who venture near the shoreline. Authorities issue a stern advisory, urging the public to stay away from the coast and refrain from engaging in water sports. Safety must take precedence as this fierce typhoon continues to unleash its fury upon the region.
In the past hour, wind measurements have revealed the sheer force of Saola’s impact. At Ngong Ping, sustained winds reached a maximum of 95 kilometers per hour, while Tap Mun and Cheung Chau experienced sustained winds of 71 and 68 kilometers per hour, respectively. These figures were accompanied by gusts exceeding 123, 84, and 93 kilometers per hour, showcasing the raw power and unpredictability of the storm.