[Typhoon-related / Hong Kong weather] The Observatory: the No. 1 standby signal will be maintained at least until 12:00 noon on Friday. Assess changes to determine whether a No. 3 strong wind signal needs to be reissued.

The Hong Kong Observatory said that the No. 1 Storm Signal was issued at 7:40 a.m., and at 4:45 p.m., it said that during daytime today the organisation of the tropical low-pressure system remained rather loose. It was generally moving along a westward path toward the waters south of Hainan Island, keeping a considerable distance from Hong Kong. The No. 1 Storm Signal will be maintained until at least 12:00 noon tomorrow. The Observatory will then assess whether it is necessary to issue the No. 3 Strong Wind Signal again, having regard to changes in the intensity of the tropical cyclone, the distance between its strong wind area and the Pearl River estuary, and local wind conditions.

The Observatory said that there are rough seas. Members of the public should keep away from the shoreline and stop all water-related activities, and should pay attention to the latest weather updates.

Today’s maximum 33 degrees Celsius; UV extremely high

The Observatory forecast that today in Hong Kong will be generally cloudy, with a few showers. At first, thunderstorms will occur over some areas. During the day, there will be some sunshine and it will be sultry at times. The maximum temperature in urban areas will be about 33 degrees Celsius. Winds will be from the east to the southeast at Force 4, with occasional Force 5.

The maximum UV index forecast for today is 11. The UV exposure level is classified as “extremely high”.

Tropical cyclone expected to keep a distance of 400 kilometres or more from Hong Kong

The Observatory said that the tropical cyclone will move generally toward the area from Hainan Island to the Beibu Gulf today and tomorrow (3 days), keeping a distance of 400 kilometres or more from Hong Kong. Owing to its influence, winds in Hong Kong will strengthen on Friday, with rough seas. Strong winds and heavy showers will gradually increase, and rainfall will be heavier in some areas. Affected by terrain, some higher-lying areas may experience gales temporarily.

Winds rather strong over the weekend; South China affected by a trough next midweek

On Friday, it will be generally cloudy, with a few episodes of strong winds, heavy showers and thunderstorms. The number of showers will gradually increase, with heavier rainfall in some areas, and there will be rough seas. Temperatures will range from 27 to 31 degrees Celsius. Winds will be from the east to the southeast at Force 5, with occasional Force 6 offshore. Later, higher ground will reach Force 7.

On Saturday (4th), it will be cloudy, with strong winds, heavy showers and thunderstorms. Rainfall may be quite heavy at times, with rough seas. Temperatures will range from 26 to 29 degrees Celsius. Winds will be from the south to the southeast at Force 4 to 5. Offshore it will be Force 6 at first, and higher ground will reach Force 7.

Looking ahead to Sunday (5th), it will be generally cloudy, with occasional showers and gale-force thunderstorms, and rainfall will be heavier in some areas.