Friday, August 10, 2007
Signal Flag Number 8 Has Been Hoisted
Bulletin issued at 15:10 HKT 10/Aug/2007
TROPICAL CYCLONE BULLETIN
HERE IS THE LATEST TROPICAL CYCLONE WARNING ISSUED BY THE HONG KONG OBSERVATORY.
THE NO. 8 SOUTHWEST GALE OR STORM SIGNAL IS IN FORCE.
THIS MEANS THAT WINDS WITH MEAN SPEEDS OF 63 KILOMETRES PER HOUR OR MORE ARE EXPECTED FROM THE SOUTHWEST QUARTER.
AT 3 P.M., TROPICAL STORM PABUK WAS CENTRED ABOUT 30 KILOMETRES WEST-NORTHWEST OF THE HONG KONG OBSERVATORY (NEAR 22.4 DEGREES NORTH 113.9 DEGREES EAST) AND IS FORECAST TO MOVE NORTHEAST AT ABOUT 8 KILOMETRES PER HOUR SKIRTING HONG KONG ON THE WEST.
THE RAINBAND ASSOCIATED WITH PABUK IS EXPECTED TO BRING HEAVY RAIN AND SQUALLS TO MANY PART OF THE TERRITORIES.
(PRECAUTIONARY ANNOUNCEMENTS WITH NO. 8 SIGNAL)
(1) COMPLETE ALL PRECAUTIONS IN YOUR HOME. LOCK ALL WINDOWS AND DOORS, FIT BARS INTO POSITION AND INSERT REINFORCED SHUTTERS AND GATES IF THEY ARE AVAILABLE. ADHESIVE TAPE FIXED TO LARGE WINDOW-PANES IN EXPOSED POSITIONS WILL REDUCE DAMAGE BY BROKEN GLASS. STORM WATER DRAINS SHOULD BE CLEARED OF LEAVES AND RUBBISH.
(2) PARK YOUR CAR WHERE IT IS LEAST LIKELY TO BE DAMAGED.
(3) DO NOT STAND NEAR WINDOWS ON THE EXPOSED SIDE OF YOUR HOME. MOVE ALL FURNITURE AND VALUABLES AWAY FROM THESE AREAS. MAKE SURE YOU HAVE A SAFE PLACE TO SHELTER, SHOULD WINDOWS BE BROKEN.
(4) SINCE SEAS ARE VERY ROUGH, YOU ARE ADVISED TO STAY AWAY FROM THE SHORELINE AND NOT TO ENGAGE IN WATER SPORTS.
(5) FLIGHTS AT HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE WEATHER. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR AIRLINE FOR THE LATEST FLIGHT INFORMATION BEFORE DEPARTING FOR THE AIRPORT.
(6) PLEASE LISTEN TO YOUR RADIO OR WATCH YOUR TV FOR THE LATEST WEATHER INFORMATION BROADCAST AT THE 15TH, 30TH, 45TH AND 58TH MINUTE OF EACH HOUR. YOU CAN ALSO BROWSE THE HONG KONG OBSERVATORY'S WEB SITE FOR THE INFORMATION.
TROPICAL CYCLONE BULLETIN
HERE IS THE LATEST TROPICAL CYCLONE WARNING ISSUED BY THE HONG KONG OBSERVATORY.
THE NO. 8 SOUTHWEST GALE OR STORM SIGNAL IS IN FORCE.
THIS MEANS THAT WINDS WITH MEAN SPEEDS OF 63 KILOMETRES PER HOUR OR MORE ARE EXPECTED FROM THE SOUTHWEST QUARTER.
AT 3 P.M., TROPICAL STORM PABUK WAS CENTRED ABOUT 30 KILOMETRES WEST-NORTHWEST OF THE HONG KONG OBSERVATORY (NEAR 22.4 DEGREES NORTH 113.9 DEGREES EAST) AND IS FORECAST TO MOVE NORTHEAST AT ABOUT 8 KILOMETRES PER HOUR SKIRTING HONG KONG ON THE WEST.
THE RAINBAND ASSOCIATED WITH PABUK IS EXPECTED TO BRING HEAVY RAIN AND SQUALLS TO MANY PART OF THE TERRITORIES.
(PRECAUTIONARY ANNOUNCEMENTS WITH NO. 8 SIGNAL)
(1) COMPLETE ALL PRECAUTIONS IN YOUR HOME. LOCK ALL WINDOWS AND DOORS, FIT BARS INTO POSITION AND INSERT REINFORCED SHUTTERS AND GATES IF THEY ARE AVAILABLE. ADHESIVE TAPE FIXED TO LARGE WINDOW-PANES IN EXPOSED POSITIONS WILL REDUCE DAMAGE BY BROKEN GLASS. STORM WATER DRAINS SHOULD BE CLEARED OF LEAVES AND RUBBISH.
(2) PARK YOUR CAR WHERE IT IS LEAST LIKELY TO BE DAMAGED.
(3) DO NOT STAND NEAR WINDOWS ON THE EXPOSED SIDE OF YOUR HOME. MOVE ALL FURNITURE AND VALUABLES AWAY FROM THESE AREAS. MAKE SURE YOU HAVE A SAFE PLACE TO SHELTER, SHOULD WINDOWS BE BROKEN.
(4) SINCE SEAS ARE VERY ROUGH, YOU ARE ADVISED TO STAY AWAY FROM THE SHORELINE AND NOT TO ENGAGE IN WATER SPORTS.
(5) FLIGHTS AT HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE WEATHER. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR AIRLINE FOR THE LATEST FLIGHT INFORMATION BEFORE DEPARTING FOR THE AIRPORT.
(6) PLEASE LISTEN TO YOUR RADIO OR WATCH YOUR TV FOR THE LATEST WEATHER INFORMATION BROADCAST AT THE 15TH, 30TH, 45TH AND 58TH MINUTE OF EACH HOUR. YOU CAN ALSO BROWSE THE HONG KONG OBSERVATORY'S WEB SITE FOR THE INFORMATION.
Thursday, August 09, 2007
It's Back... And Much Stronger!
Bulletin issued at 13:55 HKT 10/Aug/2007
TROPICAL CYCLONE BULLETIN
HERE IS THE LATEST TROPICAL CYCLONE WARNING ISSUED BY THE HONG KONG OBSERVATORY.
THE STRONG WIND SIGNAL NO. 3 IS IN FORCE.
THIS MEANS THAT WINDS WITH MEAN SPEEDS OF 41 TO 62 KILOMETRES PER HOUR ARE EXPECTED.
AT 2 P.M., THE CENTRE OF TROPICAL STORM PABUK WAS ESTIMATED TO BE ABOUT 40 KILOMETRES WEST OF HONG KONG OBSERVATORY (NEAR 22.3 DEGREES NORTH 113.8 DEGREES EAST) AND IS FORECAST TO MOVE NORTHEAST AT ABOUT 8 KILOMETRES PER HOUR SKIRTING HONG KONG ON THE WEST.
PABUK IS NOW VERY CLOSE TO WESTERN PART OF HONG KONG. THE OBSERVATORY WILL ISSUE THE NO. 8 GALE OR STORM SIGNAL SHORTLY.
THE RAINBANDS OF PABUK ARE ALSO BRINGING HEAVY RAIN WITH SQUALLS TO HONG KONG.
WINDS AT SEAS OF SOUTHERN HONG KONG WERE SIGNIFICANTLY HIGHER THAN THE GENERAL WIND CONDITION OVER THE TERRITORY, REACHING GALE FORCE. IN THE PAST HOUR, WINDS OF ABOUT 94 KM/H WERE RECORDED RESPECTIVELY. PEOPLE IN THAT AREATHOSE AREAS SHOULD EXERCISE GREAT CARE IF THEY ARE OUT IN THE OPEN.
(PRECAUTIONARY ANNOUNCEMENTS WITH NO. 3 SIGNAL)
(1) YOU ARE ADVISED NOT TO DELAY IN TAKING ALL PRECAUTIONS TO PROTECT YOUR HOME OR PROPERTY. MAKE SURE NOW THAT ALL LOOSE OBJECTS ARE SECURE. PORCH FURNITURE, FLOWER POTS AND OTHER OBJECTS LIKELY TO BE BLOWN AWAY SHOULD BE TAKEN INDOORS. CHECK AGAIN AND MAKE SURE ALL WINDOWS AND DOORS CAN BE SECURELY LOCKED.
(2) SINCE SEAS ARE ROUGH, YOU ARE ADVISED TO STAY AWAY FROM THE SHORELINE AND NOT TO ENGAGE IN WATER SPORTS.
(3) FOR SAFETY REASONS, IT IS SUGGESTED THAT ALL OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES BE CANCELLED.
(4) PEOPLE SHOULD AVOID WALKING OR WORKING IN AREAS EXPOSED TO GALES AND SQUALLS. DRIVERS USING HIGHWAYS AND FLYOVERS SHOULD BE ALERT TO VIOLENT GUSTS.
(5) ENGINEERS, ARCHITECTS AND CONTRACTORS ARE AGAIN REMINDED THAT ALL SCAFFOLDINGS, HOARDINGS AND TEMPORARY BUILDINGS SHOULD BE SECURED.
(6) SMALL CRAFT OWNERS SHOULD NOW COMPLETE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE SAFETY OF THEIR BOATS.
(7) FISHING VESSELS NOT YET IN TYPHOON SHELTERS SHOULD SEEK SHELTER WITHOUT DELAY. CHECK AGAIN THAT ALL DECK FITTINGS ARE FIRMLY FASTENED. IF AVAILABLE, HEAVY ANCHORS SHOULD BE PREPARED AND USED IN ADDITION TO REGULAR ANCHORS.
(8) LISTEN TO YOUR RADIO, WATCH YOUR TV OR BROWSE THE HONG KONG OBSERVATORY'S WEB SITE FOR THE LATEST INFORMATION ON THE TROPICAL CYCLONE.
PRE - NO. 8 SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
THE HONG KONG OBSERVATORY ANNOUNCES THAT THE TROPICAL CYCLONE WARNING SIGNAL NUMBER 8 IS EXPECTED TO BE ISSUED AT OR BEFORE 3:30 P.M. TODAY ( 10 AUGUST 2007 ). WINDS LOCALLY WILL STRENGTHEN FURTHER.
THE GOVERNMENT ADVISES MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WITH LONG OR DIFFICULT HOME JOURNEYS OR HAVING TO RETURN TO OUTLYING ISLANDS TO BEGIN THEIR JOURNEYS NOW. THE GOVERNMENT IS NOW MAKING ARRANGEMENTS TO RELEASE ITS EMPLOYEES ACCORDINGLY.
ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE EDUCATION BUREAU (EDB) : THE EDB ANNOUNCES THAT CLASSES OF ALL SCHOOLS ARE SUSPENDED TODAY. SCHOOLS SHOULD IMPLEMENT CONTINGENCY MEASURES TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF STUDENTS. THEY SHOULD ENSURE THAT CONDITIONS ARE SAFE BEFORE ALLOWING STUDENTS TO RETURN HOME.
TROPICAL CYCLONE BULLETIN
HERE IS THE LATEST TROPICAL CYCLONE WARNING ISSUED BY THE HONG KONG OBSERVATORY.
THE STRONG WIND SIGNAL NO. 3 IS IN FORCE.
THIS MEANS THAT WINDS WITH MEAN SPEEDS OF 41 TO 62 KILOMETRES PER HOUR ARE EXPECTED.
AT 2 P.M., THE CENTRE OF TROPICAL STORM PABUK WAS ESTIMATED TO BE ABOUT 40 KILOMETRES WEST OF HONG KONG OBSERVATORY (NEAR 22.3 DEGREES NORTH 113.8 DEGREES EAST) AND IS FORECAST TO MOVE NORTHEAST AT ABOUT 8 KILOMETRES PER HOUR SKIRTING HONG KONG ON THE WEST.
PABUK IS NOW VERY CLOSE TO WESTERN PART OF HONG KONG. THE OBSERVATORY WILL ISSUE THE NO. 8 GALE OR STORM SIGNAL SHORTLY.
THE RAINBANDS OF PABUK ARE ALSO BRINGING HEAVY RAIN WITH SQUALLS TO HONG KONG.
WINDS AT SEAS OF SOUTHERN HONG KONG WERE SIGNIFICANTLY HIGHER THAN THE GENERAL WIND CONDITION OVER THE TERRITORY, REACHING GALE FORCE. IN THE PAST HOUR, WINDS OF ABOUT 94 KM/H WERE RECORDED RESPECTIVELY. PEOPLE IN THAT AREATHOSE AREAS SHOULD EXERCISE GREAT CARE IF THEY ARE OUT IN THE OPEN.
(PRECAUTIONARY ANNOUNCEMENTS WITH NO. 3 SIGNAL)
(1) YOU ARE ADVISED NOT TO DELAY IN TAKING ALL PRECAUTIONS TO PROTECT YOUR HOME OR PROPERTY. MAKE SURE NOW THAT ALL LOOSE OBJECTS ARE SECURE. PORCH FURNITURE, FLOWER POTS AND OTHER OBJECTS LIKELY TO BE BLOWN AWAY SHOULD BE TAKEN INDOORS. CHECK AGAIN AND MAKE SURE ALL WINDOWS AND DOORS CAN BE SECURELY LOCKED.
(2) SINCE SEAS ARE ROUGH, YOU ARE ADVISED TO STAY AWAY FROM THE SHORELINE AND NOT TO ENGAGE IN WATER SPORTS.
(3) FOR SAFETY REASONS, IT IS SUGGESTED THAT ALL OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES BE CANCELLED.
(4) PEOPLE SHOULD AVOID WALKING OR WORKING IN AREAS EXPOSED TO GALES AND SQUALLS. DRIVERS USING HIGHWAYS AND FLYOVERS SHOULD BE ALERT TO VIOLENT GUSTS.
(5) ENGINEERS, ARCHITECTS AND CONTRACTORS ARE AGAIN REMINDED THAT ALL SCAFFOLDINGS, HOARDINGS AND TEMPORARY BUILDINGS SHOULD BE SECURED.
(6) SMALL CRAFT OWNERS SHOULD NOW COMPLETE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE SAFETY OF THEIR BOATS.
(7) FISHING VESSELS NOT YET IN TYPHOON SHELTERS SHOULD SEEK SHELTER WITHOUT DELAY. CHECK AGAIN THAT ALL DECK FITTINGS ARE FIRMLY FASTENED. IF AVAILABLE, HEAVY ANCHORS SHOULD BE PREPARED AND USED IN ADDITION TO REGULAR ANCHORS.
(8) LISTEN TO YOUR RADIO, WATCH YOUR TV OR BROWSE THE HONG KONG OBSERVATORY'S WEB SITE FOR THE LATEST INFORMATION ON THE TROPICAL CYCLONE.
PRE - NO. 8 SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
THE HONG KONG OBSERVATORY ANNOUNCES THAT THE TROPICAL CYCLONE WARNING SIGNAL NUMBER 8 IS EXPECTED TO BE ISSUED AT OR BEFORE 3:30 P.M. TODAY ( 10 AUGUST 2007 ). WINDS LOCALLY WILL STRENGTHEN FURTHER.
THE GOVERNMENT ADVISES MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WITH LONG OR DIFFICULT HOME JOURNEYS OR HAVING TO RETURN TO OUTLYING ISLANDS TO BEGIN THEIR JOURNEYS NOW. THE GOVERNMENT IS NOW MAKING ARRANGEMENTS TO RELEASE ITS EMPLOYEES ACCORDINGLY.
ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE EDUCATION BUREAU (EDB) : THE EDB ANNOUNCES THAT CLASSES OF ALL SCHOOLS ARE SUSPENDED TODAY. SCHOOLS SHOULD IMPLEMENT CONTINGENCY MEASURES TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF STUDENTS. THEY SHOULD ENSURE THAT CONDITIONS ARE SAFE BEFORE ALLOWING STUDENTS TO RETURN HOME.
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
Loosing Steam
Bulletin issued at 03:45 HKT 09/Aug/2007
TROPICAL CYCLONE BULLETIN
HERE IS THE LATEST TROPICAL CYCLONE WARNING ISSUED BY THE HONG KONG OBSERVATORY.
THE STRONG WIND SIGNAL NO. 3 IS IN FORCE.
THIS MEANS THAT WINDS WITH MEAN SPEEDS OF 41 TO 62 KILOMETRES PER HOUR ARE EXPECTED.
AT 4 A.M., THE CENTRE OF TROPICAL DEPRESSION PABUK WAS ESTIMATED TO BE ABOUT 50 KILOMETRES EAST-SOUTHEAST OF HONG KONG (NEAR 22.1 DEGREES NORTH 114.6 DEGREES EAST) AND IS FORECAST TO MOVE WEST AT ABOUT 25 KILOMETRES PER HOUR ACROSS SEAS SOUTH OF HONG KONG TOWARDS GUANGDONG.
(PRECAUTIONARY ANNOUNCEMENTS WITH NO. 3 SIGNAL)
(1) YOU ARE ADVISED NOT TO DELAY IN TAKING ALL PRECAUTIONS TO PROTECT YOUR HOME OR PROPERTY. MAKE SURE NOW THAT ALL LOOSE OBJECTS ARE SECURE. PORCH FURNITURE, FLOWER POTS AND OTHER OBJECTS LIKELY TO BE BLOWN AWAY SHOULD BE TAKEN INDOORS. CHECK AGAIN AND MAKE SURE ALL WINDOWS AND DOORS CAN BE SECURELY LOCKED.
(2) SINCE SEAS ARE ROUGH, YOU ARE ADVISED TO STAY AWAY FROM THE SHORELINE AND NOT TO ENGAGE IN WATER SPORTS.
(3) FISHING VESSELS NOT YET IN TYPHOON SHELTERS SHOULD SEEK SHELTER WITHOUT DELAY. CHECK AGAIN THAT ALL DECK FITTINGS ARE FIRMLY FASTENED. IF AVAILABLE, HEAVY ANCHORS SHOULD BE PREPARED AND USED IN ADDITION TO REGULAR ANCHORS.
(4) LISTEN TO YOUR RADIO, WATCH YOUR TV OR BROWSE THE HONG KONG OBSERVATORY'S WEB SITE FOR THE LATEST INFORMATION ON THE TROPICAL CYCLONE.
TROPICAL CYCLONE BULLETIN
HERE IS THE LATEST TROPICAL CYCLONE WARNING ISSUED BY THE HONG KONG OBSERVATORY.
THE STRONG WIND SIGNAL NO. 3 IS IN FORCE.
THIS MEANS THAT WINDS WITH MEAN SPEEDS OF 41 TO 62 KILOMETRES PER HOUR ARE EXPECTED.
AT 4 A.M., THE CENTRE OF TROPICAL DEPRESSION PABUK WAS ESTIMATED TO BE ABOUT 50 KILOMETRES EAST-SOUTHEAST OF HONG KONG (NEAR 22.1 DEGREES NORTH 114.6 DEGREES EAST) AND IS FORECAST TO MOVE WEST AT ABOUT 25 KILOMETRES PER HOUR ACROSS SEAS SOUTH OF HONG KONG TOWARDS GUANGDONG.
(PRECAUTIONARY ANNOUNCEMENTS WITH NO. 3 SIGNAL)
(1) YOU ARE ADVISED NOT TO DELAY IN TAKING ALL PRECAUTIONS TO PROTECT YOUR HOME OR PROPERTY. MAKE SURE NOW THAT ALL LOOSE OBJECTS ARE SECURE. PORCH FURNITURE, FLOWER POTS AND OTHER OBJECTS LIKELY TO BE BLOWN AWAY SHOULD BE TAKEN INDOORS. CHECK AGAIN AND MAKE SURE ALL WINDOWS AND DOORS CAN BE SECURELY LOCKED.
(2) SINCE SEAS ARE ROUGH, YOU ARE ADVISED TO STAY AWAY FROM THE SHORELINE AND NOT TO ENGAGE IN WATER SPORTS.
(3) FISHING VESSELS NOT YET IN TYPHOON SHELTERS SHOULD SEEK SHELTER WITHOUT DELAY. CHECK AGAIN THAT ALL DECK FITTINGS ARE FIRMLY FASTENED. IF AVAILABLE, HEAVY ANCHORS SHOULD BE PREPARED AND USED IN ADDITION TO REGULAR ANCHORS.
(4) LISTEN TO YOUR RADIO, WATCH YOUR TV OR BROWSE THE HONG KONG OBSERVATORY'S WEB SITE FOR THE LATEST INFORMATION ON THE TROPICAL CYCLONE.
China Threatens 'Nuclear Option' Of Dollar Sales
The Chinese government has begun a concerted campaign of economic threats against the United States, hinting that it may liquidate its vast holding of US treasuries if Washington imposes trade sanctions to force a yuan revaluation.
Click Title For Full Article
Click Title For Full Article
Tropical Cyclone Pabuk
Bulletin issued at 16:45 HKT 08/Aug/2007
TROPICAL CYCLONE BULLETIN
HERE IS THE LATEST TROPICAL CYCLONE WARNING BULLETIN ISSUED BY THE HONG KONG OBSERVATORY.
THE STANDBY SIGNAL, NO. 1 IS IN FORCE.
THIS MEANS THAT A TROPICAL CYCLONE NOW CENTRED WITHIN ABOUT 800 KILOMETRES OF HONG KONG MAY AFFECT US.
AT 5 P.M. THE CENTRE OF SEVERE TROPICAL STORM PABUK WAS ESTIMATED TO BE ABOUT 300 KILOMETRES EAST OF HONG KONG (NEAR 22.3 DEGREES NORTH 117.1 DEGREES EAST) AND IS FORECAST TO MOVE WEST AT ABOUT 20 KILOMETRES PER HOUR TOWARDS GUANGDONG.
UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF TROPICAL STORM WUTIP OVER THE NORTHWEST PACIFIC, PABUK HAS SLOWED DOWN SIGNIFICANTLY IN THE PAST FEW HOURS. THE OBSERVATORY WILL CONSIDER ISSUING THE STRONG WIND SIGNAL NUMBER 3 THIS EVENING OR TONIGHT.
(PRECAUTIONARY ANNOUNCEMENTS WITH NO. 1 SIGNAL)
(1) SOME PRECAUTIONS AGAINST DAMAGE SHOULD BE TAKEN NOW, GUTTERS AND DRAINS SHOULD BE CLEARED OF OBSTRUCTIONS. HINGES, BOLTS, LOCKS AND SHUTTERS OF WINDOWS AND DOORS SHOULD BE CHECKED.
(2) IF YOU ARE PLANNING TO VISIT GUANGDONG, MACAU, ANY OF THE OFF-SHORE ISLANDS OR REMOTE PARTS OF HONG KONG, YOU ARE REMINDED THAT CHANGES IN WEATHER MAY AFFECT YOUR PLANS.
(3) SINCE THERE MAY BE SWELLS, YOU ARE ADVISED TO STAY AWAY FROM THE SHORELINE AND NOT TO ENGAGE IN WATER SPORTS.
(4) ENGINEERS, ARCHITECTS AND CONTRACTORS SHOULD MAKE SURE THAT SCAFFOLDINGS, HOARDINGS AND OTHER TEMPORARY STRUCTURES ARE SECURED.
(5) LISTEN TO YOUR RADIO, WATCH YOUR TV OR BROWSE THE HONG KONG OBSERVATORY'S WEB SITE FOR INFORMATION ON THE TROPICAL CYCLONE.
TROPICAL CYCLONE BULLETIN
HERE IS THE LATEST TROPICAL CYCLONE WARNING BULLETIN ISSUED BY THE HONG KONG OBSERVATORY.
THE STANDBY SIGNAL, NO. 1 IS IN FORCE.
THIS MEANS THAT A TROPICAL CYCLONE NOW CENTRED WITHIN ABOUT 800 KILOMETRES OF HONG KONG MAY AFFECT US.
AT 5 P.M. THE CENTRE OF SEVERE TROPICAL STORM PABUK WAS ESTIMATED TO BE ABOUT 300 KILOMETRES EAST OF HONG KONG (NEAR 22.3 DEGREES NORTH 117.1 DEGREES EAST) AND IS FORECAST TO MOVE WEST AT ABOUT 20 KILOMETRES PER HOUR TOWARDS GUANGDONG.
UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF TROPICAL STORM WUTIP OVER THE NORTHWEST PACIFIC, PABUK HAS SLOWED DOWN SIGNIFICANTLY IN THE PAST FEW HOURS. THE OBSERVATORY WILL CONSIDER ISSUING THE STRONG WIND SIGNAL NUMBER 3 THIS EVENING OR TONIGHT.
(PRECAUTIONARY ANNOUNCEMENTS WITH NO. 1 SIGNAL)
(1) SOME PRECAUTIONS AGAINST DAMAGE SHOULD BE TAKEN NOW, GUTTERS AND DRAINS SHOULD BE CLEARED OF OBSTRUCTIONS. HINGES, BOLTS, LOCKS AND SHUTTERS OF WINDOWS AND DOORS SHOULD BE CHECKED.
(2) IF YOU ARE PLANNING TO VISIT GUANGDONG, MACAU, ANY OF THE OFF-SHORE ISLANDS OR REMOTE PARTS OF HONG KONG, YOU ARE REMINDED THAT CHANGES IN WEATHER MAY AFFECT YOUR PLANS.
(3) SINCE THERE MAY BE SWELLS, YOU ARE ADVISED TO STAY AWAY FROM THE SHORELINE AND NOT TO ENGAGE IN WATER SPORTS.
(4) ENGINEERS, ARCHITECTS AND CONTRACTORS SHOULD MAKE SURE THAT SCAFFOLDINGS, HOARDINGS AND OTHER TEMPORARY STRUCTURES ARE SECURED.
(5) LISTEN TO YOUR RADIO, WATCH YOUR TV OR BROWSE THE HONG KONG OBSERVATORY'S WEB SITE FOR INFORMATION ON THE TROPICAL CYCLONE.
The Flags Explained
Hong Kong's Tropical Cyclone Warning Signals
Tropical Cyclones : Tropical cyclones normally occur during the months of May to November, and are particularly prevalent during September.
Tropical cyclone advisory bulletins and/or warnings are issued by the Hong Kong observatory whenever a tropical cyclone centres within 800 km of Hong Kong poses a threat to the territory.
These advisory bulletins include the tropical cyclone warning signal issued and its significance, the latest position and expected movement of the centre of the tropical cyclone, information on the wind strength, rainfall and sea level in the territory and advice on precautionary measures.
Simply knowing what signal is issued is not enough. You should also listen to radio and TV broadcasts of weather bulletins and follow the advice given. Tropical Cyclone Signals are to warn you of the threat of winds associated with the tropical cyclone. Because of topographical conditions, local winds may be substantially different from those in the harbour areas. For your own safety, you should stay alert at all times and be prepared to deal with changing conditions at short notice. Remember that areas that may have been previously sheltered may quickly become exposed.
Neither should you relax precautions when the tropical cyclone is moving away from Hong Kong, as high winds are likely to persist for some time. You should stay indoors where it is safe until winds moderate.
Information on other hazards associated with the tropical cyclone will be included in warning bulletins. When necessary, separate warnings of heavy rain, flooding and landslips will be issued.
History of the Hong Kong Tropical Cyclone Warning Signals : Starting from 1884, a system of drum, ball and cone was employed to give information to the mariners in the harbour on the existence and approximate location of a tropical cyclone. For the local public a typhoon gun was used to warn imminent gale force winds brought about by tropical cyclones. In 1907, explosive bombs replaced the typhoon gun as they made louder sounds and were considered an improvement over the firing of a gun. The last typhoon boom was exploded in 1937.
In 1917, the first numbered signal system geared to the warning of wind conditions in Hong Kong was introduced. The numbers were from 1 to 7 with numbers 2 to 5 signifying gale force winds expected from the four quadrants, namely N, S, E and W.
In 1931, the signals were amended to 1 to 10 with signals 2 and 3 signifying strong winds from SW and SE respectively, signal 4 being a non-local signal, signals 5 to 8 signifying gales from the four quadrants, namely NW, SW, NE ad SE, signal 9 signifying increasing gales and signal 10 indicating the threat of hurricane force winds. Signals 2, 3 and 4 were used intermittently afterwards and were discontinued in the late 1930s.
In 1956, the No. 3 Strong Wind Signal was introduced between the No. 1 Stand-by Signal and the gale signals.
Starting from 1 January 1973, signals 5 to 8 were replaced by 8 NW, 8 SW, 8 NE and 8 SE respectively so as to avoid misunderstanding by the public. This system has been in use ever since.
Originally, the signals were intended mainly for the benefits of mariners but have over the years been also adopted for use by the public. Starting from 1987, the Observatory issued the Pre-No.8 Special Announcement to give a two-hour advance notice to the public before the issue of the No.8 signal.
Tropical Cyclones : Tropical cyclones normally occur during the months of May to November, and are particularly prevalent during September.
Tropical cyclone advisory bulletins and/or warnings are issued by the Hong Kong observatory whenever a tropical cyclone centres within 800 km of Hong Kong poses a threat to the territory.
These advisory bulletins include the tropical cyclone warning signal issued and its significance, the latest position and expected movement of the centre of the tropical cyclone, information on the wind strength, rainfall and sea level in the territory and advice on precautionary measures.
Simply knowing what signal is issued is not enough. You should also listen to radio and TV broadcasts of weather bulletins and follow the advice given. Tropical Cyclone Signals are to warn you of the threat of winds associated with the tropical cyclone. Because of topographical conditions, local winds may be substantially different from those in the harbour areas. For your own safety, you should stay alert at all times and be prepared to deal with changing conditions at short notice. Remember that areas that may have been previously sheltered may quickly become exposed.
Neither should you relax precautions when the tropical cyclone is moving away from Hong Kong, as high winds are likely to persist for some time. You should stay indoors where it is safe until winds moderate.
Information on other hazards associated with the tropical cyclone will be included in warning bulletins. When necessary, separate warnings of heavy rain, flooding and landslips will be issued.
History of the Hong Kong Tropical Cyclone Warning Signals : Starting from 1884, a system of drum, ball and cone was employed to give information to the mariners in the harbour on the existence and approximate location of a tropical cyclone. For the local public a typhoon gun was used to warn imminent gale force winds brought about by tropical cyclones. In 1907, explosive bombs replaced the typhoon gun as they made louder sounds and were considered an improvement over the firing of a gun. The last typhoon boom was exploded in 1937.
In 1917, the first numbered signal system geared to the warning of wind conditions in Hong Kong was introduced. The numbers were from 1 to 7 with numbers 2 to 5 signifying gale force winds expected from the four quadrants, namely N, S, E and W.
In 1931, the signals were amended to 1 to 10 with signals 2 and 3 signifying strong winds from SW and SE respectively, signal 4 being a non-local signal, signals 5 to 8 signifying gales from the four quadrants, namely NW, SW, NE ad SE, signal 9 signifying increasing gales and signal 10 indicating the threat of hurricane force winds. Signals 2, 3 and 4 were used intermittently afterwards and were discontinued in the late 1930s.
In 1956, the No. 3 Strong Wind Signal was introduced between the No. 1 Stand-by Signal and the gale signals.
Starting from 1 January 1973, signals 5 to 8 were replaced by 8 NW, 8 SW, 8 NE and 8 SE respectively so as to avoid misunderstanding by the public. This system has been in use ever since.
Originally, the signals were intended mainly for the benefits of mariners but have over the years been also adopted for use by the public. Starting from 1987, the Observatory issued the Pre-No.8 Special Announcement to give a two-hour advance notice to the public before the issue of the No.8 signal.
Meaning of Tropical Cyclone Warning Signals and What you should do :
This is a stand-by signal, indicating that a tropical cyclone is centred within about 800 km of Hong Kong and may affect the territory.Action - If you are planning an outing, remember that there is a tropical cyclone near Hong Kong which may affect your plans. Beware that strong winds may occur over offshore waters. Listen to radio and TV broadcasts or browse the Observatory’s website on the progress of the tropical cyclone.
Strong wind is expected or blowing generally in Hong Kong near sea level, with a sustained speed of 41-62 km/h (kilometres per hour), and gusts which may exceed 110 km/h, and the wind condition is expected to persist. Winds are normally expected to become generally stronger in Hong Kong within 12 hours after the issue of this signal. Winds over offshore waters and on high ground may reach gale force.Action - Secure all loose objects, particularly those on balconies and rooftops. Flower pots and other objects likely to be blown away should be taken indoors. Secure hoardings, scaffoldings and temporary structures. Drains should be cleared to avoid blockage and overflows. Stay away from the shoreline and not to engage in water sports. Fishing vessels should seek shelter without delay. Listen to radio and TV announcements and browse the Observatory’s website for further information about the tropical cyclone.
Gale or storm force wind is expected or blowing generally in Hong Kong near sea level, with a sustained wind speed of 63-117 km/h from the quarter indicated and gusts which may exceed 180 km/h, and the wind condition is expected to persist.Action - Complete all precautions now before gales commence. Lock all windows and doors. Fit bars into positions and insert reinforced shutters and gates if available. Adhesive tape fixed to large window panes in exposed positions will reduce damage by broken glass.
Do not stand near windows on the exposed side of your home. Move all furniture and valuables away from these areas. Make sure you have a safe place to shelter, should windows be broken. Now is the time to decide which rooms you will use to shelter if the windows on the exposed side of your home become broken.
Owners of neon signs should arrange for the electricity supply to their signs to be switched off.
Park your car where it is least likely to be damaged.
Avoid staying in the street. Return home as soon as possible if conditions so permit.
Gale or storm force wind is increasing or expected to increase significantly in strength.Action - Stay indoors. Stay away from exposed windows and doors to avoid flying debris. Close all interior doors and make sure children are confined to the least exposed part of your home. Do not touch electrical cables that have been blown loose. You should fix broken windows and doors only when there is no danger in doing so.
If you are away from home, find a safe place and remain there until the danger is over.
Hurricane force wind is expected or blowing with sustained wind speed reaching upwards from 118 km/h and gusts that may exceed 220 km/h.Action - The same precautions as above apply.
Remember that if the eye of the typhoon passes directly over Hong Kong, there may be a temporary lull lasting a few minutes to several hours. Do not relax your guard, as there will be a sudden resumption of violent winds from a different direction. Remain where you are if protected and be prepared for destructive winds.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)