Home / Disasters and Accidents / Hong Kong Braces for Powerful Typhoon Wipha, Highest Alert Issued
Hong Kong Braces for Powerful Typhoon Wipha, Highest Alert Issued
20 Jul
Summary
- Hong Kong Observatory issues highest T10 warning for Typhoon Wipha
- Winds expected to reach over 118 km/h, similar to 2023's Super Typhoon Saola
- Over 500 flights canceled, Book Fair and other events postponed
On Sunday, the Hong Kong Observatory issued its highest warning for Typhoon Wipha, which is descending on the city and "posing a considerable threat." Authorities have hoisted the T10 signal, the highest-level warning, indicating that winds with mean speeds of 118 km/h or more are expected.
The last time the No 10 signal was raised was during Super Typhoon Saola in 2023, which caused 86 injuries, landslides, and thousands of trees to fall. In response to Typhoon Wipha, the annual Hong Kong Book Fair and over 500 flights have been canceled, and the public has been urged to take precautionary measures.
The Hong Kong Observatory warns that if the eye of the tropical cyclone passes directly over the city, there may be a temporary lull, but this will be followed by a sudden resumption of violent winds. Residents have been advised to stay in safe places.
So far, Wipha has resulted in one reported injury and reports of uprooted trees, while 214 people have sought refuge in government shelters. Several transportation services, including MTR lines, ferries, and buses, have been suspended as the city braces for the powerful storm.
