Chinapedia | All you need to know about Hong Kong's Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal

The Hong Kong Observatory issued the No. 8 Gale or Storm Signal at 6:20 pm. The Gale or Storm Signal No.8 is expected to remain in force at least until noon tomorrow (Sept. 6). What do different types of signals mean and what are some impacts on people's daily lives?

The Hong Kong Observatory uses numbers 1, 3, 8, 9 and 10 to signify the strength of a tropical cyclone in the vicinity of Hong Kong.

Signal No. 1 means that a tropical cyclone is centered within about 800km of Hong Kong and may affect the territory.

Signal No. 3 means that strong wind is blowing or expected to blow generally in Hong Kong near sea level, with a sustained speed of 41-62 km/h, and gusts which may exceed 110 km/h. Public transportation continues to run under signal No. 3. Kindergartens, schools for children with physical disability and schools for children with intellectual disability are to be suspended.

Signal No. 8 means that 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 from the quarter indicated and gusts which may exceed 180 km/h. Classes of all schools are to be suspended, and for general employees, the employers should not require employees to report for duty at workplaces.

Transportation (MTR rail and bus services) under Signal No. 8:

• Initially remains normal, the frequency increased if necessary to enable passengers to return home as soon as possible.
• Trains and Light Rail will maintain a limited service with reduced frequency as the storm gets closer.
• MTR Bus service will be suspended 3 hours after Signal 8 is issued.

Signal No. 9 means that the gale or storm force wind is increasing or expected to increase significantly in strength.

Signal No. 10 means that 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.

Under both Signal No. 9 and No. 10, the MTR railway open sections service will be suspended immediately. The underground sections will maintain limited service with limited frequency and longer traveling time. 

(English editor: Ella Qu)

Related News:

Gale or Storm Signal No.8 expected to remain in force at least until noon tomorrow

MTR train service continues under Gale and Storm Signal No. 8