The Hong Kong Observatory issued the Strong Wind Signal No 3 at 11.25 am on Tuesday, as a tropical depression brought strong winds to the territory.

Forecasters said heavy showers, thunderstorms and violent gusts were expected as the storm moved towards western Guangdong and Hainan.

The observatory said the No 3 signal would remain in force until at least 6pm.

"The need to issue higher signals subsequently will depend on the changes in the intensity of the tropical depression and the variation in local wind strength. The observatory will closely monitor the development and movement of the tropical depression," it said.

Officials announced earlier in the day that classes of kindergartens and special schools were suspended on Tuesday in light of the storm.

However, all child care centres, centres providing after school care programmes, elderly services centres, day rehabilitation units and day activity centres were maintaining their normal operating hours, the Social Welfare Department said.