No 8 signal based on scientific principles

I must disagree with Jeffry Kuperus, who suggested that the No 8 signal issued for severe tropical storm Hagupit last Wednesday was unnecessary ('Tropical storm blown out of proportion,' South China Morning Post, September 13).

According to data from the Observatory's Web site, winds over parts of Hong Kong, including some heavily populated areas, reached storm levels last Wednesday with gusts of up to hurricane force. The No 8 signal, which is a gale warning, is amply justified. I believe that the signal should have been issued a couple of hours earlier, judging from such data.

People who go shopping and even wind-surfing in such weather are taking their own risks. But for those who are more mindful of their own safety, the No 8 signal can serve as a timely warning.

While the No 8 signal may have cost some a half day of business, Mr Kuperus should be reminded that the issuing of tropical cyclone signals is based on scientific principles rather than the economy, let alone how the latter is faring at the moment.

RAYMOND WONG

Happy Valley