The Hong Kong Observatory on Wednesday issued the T9 Increasing Gale or Storm Signal at 1.40am, and said it will assess whether it needs to issue the top T10 warning as Super Typhoon Ragasa continues barreling towards the territory.

As of 2am, Ragasa was centred around 150 kilometres south-southeast of Hong Kong, and is expected to pass within 100 kilometres to the south of the territory later on Wednesday morning.

"With the hurricane force winds of Ragasa edging closer gradually, local winds will continue to strengthen.

"Depending on the change in local wind conditions, the observatory will assess the need of issuing the Hurricane Signal, no. 10," the observatory said in a statement.

Sustained winds of 100 km per hour have been recorded at Waglan Island, and just 1 km/h lower at Tate's Cairn, where forecasters also recorded a peak gust of 132 km/h.

The observatory urged people to stay in a safe place.

"Do not go outside and stay away from exposed windows and doors," it warned.

Forecasters also warned that the direction of the wind will change gradually from northerlies to east to southeasterlies as Ragasa passes by, meaning areas which were previously sheltered may become exposed.

They're expecting frequent heavy squally showers for the day, along with thunderstorms.

Overtopping waves are expected along the shoreline, which will be particularly significant along the eastern and southern coasts.

The observatory warned people to stay away from the shore.
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Last updated: 2025-09-24 HKT 01:58