Typhoon season in Hong Kong: What to expect
Everything you need to know to prepare for your first typhoon in Hong KongImage by TravelScape on Freepik
What is a typhoon?
A typhoon is a tropical storm that usually brings with it heavy rain and strong winds. It is essentially the equivalent of a hurricane in America and a tropical cyclone in Australia. Typhoon is the term used in Southeast Asia. In Hong Kong, typhoon season typically runs from May to November. Peak season is from July to September.
What to do in a typhoon
In Hong Kong, we generally receive warnings a few days in advance that a typhoon may affect the city. The best way to stay up to date with weather notifications in the city is to download the Hong Kong Observatory’s MyObservatory app. This app is great for keeping up to date with the weather and during a typhoon it becomes invaluable.
There are five tropical cyclone signals which indicate the storm’s proximity and expected effect on the city; these are T1, T3, T8, T9 and T10.
Typhoon signals – what do they mean?
T1 – Standby Signal No.1
Indicates that a tropical cyclone is within approximately 800 kilometres of Hong Kong and may affect the territory. Day-to-day life in the city continues as usual.
T3 – Strong Wind Signal No.3
Indicates that strong winds will affect the city and may exceed 110 km/h. Life in the city will continue as normal with a few exceptions; kindergartens will close, boat trips will most likely be cancelled and outdoor swimming pools will be closed.
T8 – Storm Signal No.8
Gale or storm force wind is blowing or expected to blow generally in Hong Kong near sea level, with a sustained wind speed of 63-117 km/h and gusts of up to 180 km/h. A storm signal No.8 will be accompanied by an indication of the wind direction (NW, SE etc.)
This is where daily life is really affected. Schools, offices and shops close, public transport and taxis stop running and flights are suspended.
The Observatory will make a pre-No.8 special announcement when the No.8 signal is expected within two hours to give the public time to make necessary preparations such as collecting children from school, travelling home from work and stocking up on food.
T9 – Storm Signal No.9
The gale or storm force wind is increasing or expected to increase significantly in strength.
T10 – Storm Signal No.10
Hurricane force wind is blowing or expected to blow with sustained speed reaching 118 km/h or above and gusts that may exceed 220 km/h.
How to prepare for a typhoon
The level of preparation needed really depends on your living situation and the area in which you live. When the No.3 signal is issued, you should secure loose objects on balconies and in gardens, or take them indoors. Be aware that low-lying areas may experience flooding. For a T8 signal and above, stock up on food and essentials before the shops close. Then stay indoors and wait out the storm.
