HONG KONG — Super Typhoon Saola, a formidable force of nature, has Hong Kong in its sights, unleashing hurricane-force winds and posing a grave threat to the city. As the eyewall of the storm sweeps across Hong Kong, residents find themselves in the grip of its destructive power.
The Hong Kong Observatory issued a stark warning as Saola’s forecasted track brings it perilously close, just 40 kilometers south of their location. With the Hurricane Signal, No. 10 in force, the highest level of alert, Hong Kong remains on high alert, bracing for the worst. Northerly winds will gradually shift to east to southeasterlies, potentially leaving previously sheltered areas exposed to the full force of the tempest.
Residents are urged to exercise extreme caution and remain wherever they can find protection, as this is no ordinary storm. Saola’s destructive winds have the potential to wreak havoc, and the public must be prepared for the worst. The eyewall’s passage demands unwavering vigilance and adherence to safety protocols.
The looming danger is not limited to the howling winds alone. A storm surge is expected to rapidly raise water levels in low-lying coastal areas throughout the night. The eastern coastal waters will experience a significant increase, with Tolo Harbour predicted to reach a staggering high-water level of approximately 6 meters above the chart datum near midnight. This surge is a staggering 4 meters higher than normal tide levels and could potentially set a historical record. Areas such as Sha Tin, Tai Po, Sha Tau Kok, and Sai Kung are particularly vulnerable, facing the imminent threat of severe flooding, with depths surpassing 1 meter in some locations.
As dawn breaks tomorrow, other coastal areas of Hong Kong will witness a significant rise in water levels, starting around 6 a.m. Victoria Harbour, a bustling hub of activity, will face a maximum water level approximately 3 meters above the chart datum. Low-lying coastal regions like Lei Yue Mun will experience water levels around 1.5 meters higher than normal tide levels. Tai O, known for its stilt houses, will battle against a water level of approximately 3.5 meters above the chart datum, a staggering 2 meters above the norm.
Not only will the sea become treacherous, with phenomenal swells posing a grave risk, but the winds themselves have already demonstrated their might. In the last hour, maximum sustained winds of 117, 107, and 89 kilometers per hour were recorded at Waglan Island, Tate’s Cairn, and Cheung Chau, respectively. Gusts surpassed even these figures, reaching an alarming 144, 154, and 130 kilometers per hour. These numbers serve as a harrowing reminder of the raw power Saola possesses.
Authorities are urging the public to stay away from shorelines and avoid any water-related activities, given the perilous conditions. Safety must take precedence as this super typhoon unleashes its wrath upon Hong Kong.
The city finds itself at a critical juncture, where resilience and preparedness are crucial. Hong Kong’s residents must remain united and vigilant in the face of this common threat, supporting one another through the storm’s onslaught. Only by heeding the warnings, taking necessary precautions, and staying informed can they navigate the challenging days ahead.
Source: Hong Kong Observatory
