Typhoon Wipha Threatens Hong Kong, Prompts Highest Alert Level
A powerful typhoon named Wipha is bearing down on Hong Kong, prompting the city’s meteorological observatory to raise its alert level to the maximum T10 signal. The storm, located approximately 60 kilometers southeast of Hong Kong around 10:00 am local time on Sunday, continues to intensify as it approaches the coast of Guangdong province in southern China.
The Hong Kong Meteorological Observatory issued the T10 warning, signifying that “winds of force row” with average speeds of 118 kilometers per hour or more are anticipated. This is a critical escalation, indicating a considerable threat to the region.
Wipha’s Projected Path and Regional Impact
Meteorological forecasts suggest the typhoon will bypass Hong Kong’s financial center on Sunday, passing approximately 50 kilometers to the south. Despite this near miss, authorities warn of a “considerable threat” to the city. Neighboring Chinese provinces, including Hainan and Guangdong, have also been placed on high alert, according to the official China New Agency.
Disruptions to Travel and Daily Life
The approaching storm has already caused significant disruptions. A representative from the Hong Kong airport authority reported that around 500 flights had been canceled on Sunday due to the adverse weather conditions, with another 400 flights potentially affected later in the day. More than 200 residents have sought shelter in temporary accommodation centers established by the government.
Local reports indicate large waves have been observed off Heng Fa Chuen, a residential area on the eastern side of Hong Kong Island. Emergency services responded to at least one injury, with a man admitted to a public hospital Sunday morning. Authorities also received over a dozen reports of fallen trees.
To ensure public safety, crèches and schools have been closed for the day, and train services are operating on a reduced schedule. This marks only the second time Hong Kong has raised the alert signal to level T10 in recent history; the last instance occurred during Super Typhoon Saola in 2023.
Wider Regional Concerns
The impact of Wipha extends beyond Hong Kong and mainland China. Authorities in the Philippines have reported two people missing following the typhoon’s passage through the region.
The situation remains fluid, and residents are urged to heed all warnings and instructions issued by local authorities as Typhoon Wipha continues its path toward the Chinese coastline.
