HONG KONG — The Hong Kong Observatory has issued the Standby Signal No. 1 at 5:40 p.m. on Thursday, marking the first tropical cyclone warning of the year as a tropical depression edges closer to the city.
In a statement, the Observatory indicated that the T1 signal will remain in force at least until 6 a.m. on Friday, May 31. Officials will assess the need to issue the Strong Wind Signal No. 3 throughout the day on Friday as they continue to monitor the storm’s progress.
Residents should prepare for squally showers and thunderstorms expected to hit the city on Friday and Saturday, June 1. As of 7 p.m. Thursday, the tropical depression was located over the central to northern part of the South China Sea, approximately 630 kilometers south-southwest of Hong Kong. The storm was initially slow-moving, but it is forecast to move northward at around 10 kilometers per hour, gradually approaching the coast of western Guangdong and the vicinity of the Pearl River Estuary.
The Observatory assures that the tropical depression will remain over 250 kilometers from Hong Kong tonight and into Friday morning, with strong winds not expected to significantly impact the territory during this period.
Nonetheless, the tropical depression is projected to edge closer to the coast of western Guangdong and the Pearl River Estuary throughout Friday, with potential for slight intensification. The Observatory will continue to provide updates as the situation evolves, urging residents to stay informed and take necessary precautions as the storm approaches.
For the latest weather updates and warnings, residents are advised to stay tuned to official channels and prepare for potential severe weather conditions.
