First No 3 typhoon signal of the year issued in Hong Kong as tropical depression nears
- Storm expected to be closest to city by Wednesday afternoon and move away in westerly direction with conditions subsiding by weekend
- Observatory warns of flooding in low-lying areas
The Hong Kong Observatory’s first No 3 typhoon signal of the year remained in force on Wednesday morning, as an approaching storm intensified, bringing rain and strong winds to the city.
The tropical depression was expected to be closest around Wednesday afternoon, about 300km southwest of the city.
Maximum sustained wind speeds near the centre of the storm were set to reach 75km/h, according to senior scientific officer Li Ping-wah.
The weather for Wednesday was expected to be cloudy with occasional squally showers, rough seas and thunderstorms. The temperature will range between 26 and 29 degrees Celsius.
“Those living in low-lying areas should also take caution of possible flooding,” Li said.
It was the second typhoon signal this year, with the storm season spanning from June to November. On July 2, the No 1 typhoon signal was issued but did not get upgraded.
The chances of the warning being raised to another category in the near future was not high, the Observatory said.