HONG KONG – Typhoon Koinu continued its steady northwest track towards Hong Kong this evening, prompting authorities to raise gale warnings as strong winds start lashing the city.
At 7:00PM local time, the Hong Kong Observatory issued the No. 9 Gale or Storm Signal as Koinu’s eyewall began encroaching on waters near the Pearl River Estuary, located just 70km south of the territory. Sustained winds of over 100kph were already being recorded at offshore stations.
Based on its forecast path, Koinu is expected to come within 60-70km of Hong Kong before shifting westward along the Guangdong coastline. Residents have been urged to remain vigilant, as the intensity of winds will fluctuate depending on the typhoon’s proximity.
In a related story, the HK Airport Authority (HKAA) announced today that it canceled 90 flights, and 130 flights are experiencing delays due to the weather brought by typhoon Koinu. HKAA confirmed that at 3:00 p.m. today, more than 500 inbound and outbound flights were safe in their arrivals and departures.
Heavy rain and bands of squally showers brought gusty conditions across the city through the evening. The observatory warned that low-lying areas were at risk of serious flooding or sea-water inundation due to strong storm surges.
All outdoor activities have been strongly advised against. Officials reminded the public to avoid exposed windows and coastal zones, where waves over 10 meters could batter shorelines.
In a related story, the HK Airport Authority (HKAA) announced today that it canceled 90 flights, and 130 flights are experiencing delays due to the weather brought by typhoon Koinu. HKAA confirmed that at 3:00 p.m. today, more than 500 inbound and outbound flights were safe in their arrivals and departures.
As Koinu continues organizing, the potential remains for winds to strengthen enough to warrant raising the number 10 Super Typhoon Signal before the storm moves away. Residents have been sheltering in place and closely monitoring updates from forecasters tracking the powerful cyclone’s track. further developments will likely hinge on how close Koinu steers towards this densely populated region.
