Authorities on Friday said preparations across government departments are underway as Tropical Storm Wipha edges closer to Hong Kong.

Chief Secretary Eric Chan chaired a meeting of the steering committee on inter-departmental handling of typhoons, during which he coordinated preparatory works.

One of the measures would see the Security Bureau set up an emergency monitoring and support centre if the Signal No 8 is issued.

Emergency teams like the Fire Services Department, Police, Civil Aid Service, and Auxiliary Medical Service are also fully prepared and on standby in case of emergencies.

The Transport Department will continue to operate a round-the-clock emergency transport coordination centre to monitor traffic and update the public on any disruptions.

Meanwhile, the Drainage Services Department has surveyed and cleared about 240 flood-prone spots and deployed up to 180 emergency teams city-wide.