Typhoon Wipha Prompts Highest Warning in Hong Kong, Disrupting Travel and Events

The Hong Kong Observatory issued the highest-level warning, the T10 signal, on Sunday as Typhoon Wipha approached the city, posing a significant threat. The warning, which went into effect at 9:20 am local time, indicated that winds with mean speeds of 118km/h or more were expected. The typhoon was projected to pass approximately 50km south of Hong Kong around noon. The last time the No. 10 signal was raised was during Super Typhoon Saola in 2023, which resulted in numerous injuries, landslides, and extensive tree damage. In response to the approaching storm, the annual Hong Kong Book Fair and over 500 flights were cancelled. Authorities have advised the public to take necessary precautions. Residents are warned that a temporary lull may occur if the eye of the tropical cyclone passes directly over Hong Kong, followed by a sudden resurgence of strong winds. Water levels rose to about 3 meters above Chart Datum at Tai Po Kau, and maximum gusts exceeding 103 kilometers per hour were recorded at Tate’s Cairn. Provinces like Hainan and Guangdong are on high alert due to the storm’s impacts. Wipha has caused one reported injury and uprooted trees, with 214 people seeking refuge in government shelters. While over 500 weekend flights have been cancelled, some flights may resume in the afternoon. Public transport, including several MTR lines and most ferry and bus services, are operating on a limited or suspended basis. Experts attribute the intensity of tropical cyclones to warming sea temperatures.