Hong Kong’s first No 8 typhoon signal of the year will remain in effect until 4pm at the earliest, as Typhoon Talim continues to intensify as it skirts within 260 kilometres of the territory.

The storm had not caused any major damage since the Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal no. 8 was issued at 00.40am on Monday, with authorities reporting only sporadic cases of fallen trees and scaffolding.

The Hospital Authority said no one had sought medical treatment at public hospitals as of 6am. A woman was injured after being struck by a falling tree on South Bay Road on Sunday afternoon, but it's unknown if this was connected to the storm.

However, the Hong Kong Observatory said Talim is expected to continue to intensify, and bring sustained winds of 63 kilometres per hour to the territory.

Forecasters say the no. 8 typhoon signal will remain in force until 4pm, as east to southeasterly gales prevail over Hong Kong, with occasional storm force winds on high ground. The observatory said it will look at the changes in local wind strength and how the winds are affecting Hong Kong to decide whether it’ll be in place for longer.

It’s also warning of flooding in low-lying areas along the coast in the morning, as the storm surge from Talim combines with the spring tide.

Ferries remain suspended as the storm passes, while most bus routes have also been halted. Trains are running on the MTR, but at reduced intervals.

The Education Bureau announced that all day schools would be suspended, while the Social Welfare Department said child care centres, centres providing after school care programmes, elderly services centres and day rehabilitation units will remain closed for the time being, but services may resume two hours after the no. 8 signal goes down if conditions permit.

The judiciary says all court and tribunal hearings will be adjourned for the morning, and afternoon sessions will also be put off if the no. 8 signal is still up by 11am.


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Last updated: 2023-07-17 HKT 08:41