Hong Kong issues Typhoon Signal No. 9 warning

Hong Kong issues Typhoon Signal No. 9 warning

Hong Kong has issued the No 9 storm signal, seven hours after the first No 8 warning of the year took effect, as Typhoon Wipha approaches the city [1]. The Hong Kong Observatory raised the No 9 signal at 7:20 am on Sunday, with the typhoon expected to skirt about 50 km to the south of the city around noon. The forecast indicates that adverse weather will persist throughout the day, with heavy squally showers anticipated.

Typhoon Wipha, which intensified from a severe tropical storm to a typhoon shortly before midnight on Saturday, poses significant risks to the city. The No 9 signal suggests that the typhoon's hurricane winds will be "rather close" to Hong Kong, prompting the cancellation of over 500 weekend flights and the suspension of most public transport services [1]. Major events, such as the annual Hong Kong Book Fair, have been closed as a precautionary measure.

Cathay Pacific Airways, one of the major airlines operating out of Hong Kong International Airport, has announced significant flight disruptions due to the approaching typhoon. All flights scheduled between 5:00 am and 6:00 pm on July 20 will face delays or cancellations [2]. Passengers are advised to check their flight status and expect residual delays as operations recover after the storm.

The Hong Kong Observatory has advised residents to remain indoors and expect severe weather conditions throughout the day. The typhoon's impact on the city's economy remains to be seen, but the disruption to travel and public services is likely to have financial implications.

References:
[1] https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3318882/typhoon-wipha-t9-signal-be-issued-hong-kong-720am
[2] https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/nri/latest-updates/cathay-pacific-cancels-multiple-flights-as-typhoon-wipha-approaches-hong-kong/articleshow/122781096.cms?from=mdr