The observatory late on Friday renewed warnings for serious flooding in low-lying coastal areas in parts of the New Territories, including Sha Tin, Tai Po, Sai Kung and Sha Tau Kok.

The warning came as forecasters said Super Typhoon Saola is now closest to the territory, skirting around 30km south of the observatory.

It said the water level at Tolo Harbour could reach a historical record.

The level was about three metres, it said, adding it is expected that the maximum level could reach up to six metres above chart datum before midnight, which is about three to four metres above the normal tide level.

The observatory said: "Seas will be phenomenal with swells. Members of the public are advised to stay away from the shoreline and not to engage in water sports."

Meanwhile, maximum wind gusts of about 180km per hour were recorded at Tate's Cairn, Waglan Island and the Hong Kong Sea School at 10.30pm on Friday.