The Observatory raised the T8 storm signal at 1:40pm on Wednesday, as tropical cyclone Wipha approaches Hong Kong.
This means that winds with mean speeds of 63 kilometers per hour or more are expected from the northeast quarter.
”According to the present forecast track, Wipha will edge gradually closer to the coast of western Guangdong and will be closest to Hong Kong later today, skirting around 300 kilometres to our southwest. Local winds are expected to strengthen this afternoon,” the Observatory said.
”In the past hour, the maximum sustained winds recorded at Tate’s Cairn, Waglan Island and Cheung Chau Beach were 69, 67 and 65 kilometres per hour with maximum gusts 93, 94 and 69 kilometres per hour respectively,” the Observatory added.
The Hong Kong government advised members of the public with long or difficult journeys home or those who have to return to outlying islands to start their journeys early. The government was making arrangements to release its employees.
The Hang Seng index was closed early, finishing down 1.31 percent, or 368.75 points, at 27,777.75.
Squally showers and thunderstorms are expected over the coming days.
(With Agency Inputs)
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