The Observatory issued the Standby Signal No 1 at 12.20pm on Friday, adding that the storm alert will remain in force for most of the day.

"According to the present forecast, the circulation of the tropical depression will be relatively small," the observatory said.

"It will be slow-moving and maintain a distance of over 400 kilometres from Hong Kong for the rest of [Friday]."

The tropical cyclone is forecast to skirt the northeastern part of the South China Sea over the weekend before turning northwards towards the coast of Guangdong.

The observatory said the cyclone is expected to intensify gradually and that it will assess whether it needs to issue a higher signal.

It also urged people to stay away from the shoreline and not engage in water sports as there will be swells over the next few days.
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Last updated: 2025-07-04 HKT 12:42