Tropical cyclone Hato is on course for Hong Kong - and it looks like an almost direct hit
We're in for stormy weather. Duck!
You might need a bigger umbrella...Hong Kong is preparing for stormy weather as tropical cyclone Hato approaches the city.
The Standby Signal No. 1 has been in force since this morning, and the Hong Kong Observatory will consider issuing the Strong Wind Signal No.3 later this evening. This means that winds of at least 41 to 62 kilometres per hour can be expected around Hong Kong.
As of 4pm on Tuesday, Hato was 450 kilometres east-southeast of the city, with sustained wind speeds of 120km/h in the eye of the storm. According to Observatory forecasts, the storm may pass within 100 kilometres of the city on Wednesday morning, and winds will strengthen tonight. Rain and thunderstorms are forecast throughout the rest of the week.
The Observatory also warned that due to the astronomical high tide on Wednesday morning, there may be flooding in low-lying areas.
Keep an eye on the TV, an ear on the radio, or a browser open to the Hong Kong Observatory's website for information on school arrangements, should Hato hit.