Hong Kong downgrades typhoon signal from No 9 to 8 as Storm Higos moves away

Hong Kong Observatory’s typhoon signal for Storm Higos was downgraded from 9 to 8 on August 19 after it was determined that storm was, in fact, moving away from city. According to reports, city of Macau (which is an hour from Hong Kong by ferry) in meantime issued its highest Typhoon signal, 10.

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Storm warning downgraded

As per reports, around 1:30 am (local time) on August 19 strong winds had resulted in city issuing a 9 typhoon signal. Wear forecasts had warned of low-lying areas being flooded and high sea swells were also expected due to storm.

Storm Higos also caused city to issue a landslip warning and authorities advised people to stay away from steep slopes due to danger of landslides.

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According to reports, a 8 storm warning means aver wind speeds of 63km/h while a 9 storm warning signifies gale or storm force winds which are expected to increase significantly in strength. This is first time Hong Kong has had to issue a 9 storm warning since Super Storm Mangkhut in September 2018. Storm Mangkhut had gradually intensified into a powerful 10 typhoon.

As per media reports, Home Affairs Department opened 26 temporary shelters and 50 people are believed to have sought shelter from Storm Higos. As of 1:30 am re were reports of landslides of flooding. city is reported to have suspended overnight bus services and while coronavirus pandemic had forced Hong Kong International Airport to use only one runway, both of its runways were opened for operation due to possible disruption from typhoon.

Wear forecasters have predicted conditions to improve by weekend but have claimed that Wednesday and Thursday will be windy with occasional thunderstorms. A 24-hour hotline has also been set up by Home Department in order to tackle all tropical cyclone inquiries.

(Representational Im)

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