Hong Kong is experiencing the effects of Typhoon Wipha, prompting the Hong Kong Observatory to issue the highest warning, the T10 signal, on Sunday. The alert, issued at 9:20 am local time, indicates that sustained winds are expected to reach or exceed 118km/h. The typhoon is expected to pass about 50km south of the city around midday. The most recent instance of a No. 10 signal occurred during Super Typhoon Saola in 2023, which resulted in numerous injuries, landslides and widespread damage. The current typhoon has caused the cancellation of the Hong Kong Book Fair and over 500 flights. The public is urged to adhere to safety guidelines. Residents are alerted that a temporary lull could occur if the eye of the cyclone moves directly over Hong Kong, followed by a sudden return of strong winds. Water levels rose substantially at Tai Po Kau, and gusts exceeding 103 kilometers per hour were recorded at Tate’s Cairn. Neighboring provinces are also on high alert. Wipha has led to one reported injury and reports of uprooted trees, with 214 individuals seeking refuge in government shelters. The Airport Authority suggests that some flights could potentially resume in the afternoon. Several MTR lines are running with limited service, while the Light Rail and Airport Express are suspended. Experts have noted that the intensification of tropical cyclones is related to the warming of the seas.
