Hong Kong shuts down as first T8 signal of the year hoisted

Hong Kong came to a standstill on Monday as the observatory hoisted the city’s first T8 signal of the year.

With the third-highest storm warning remains in place, many facilities will remain closed all day, including banks and most government offices. There'll be no trading on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange for the day.

The Education Bureau had announced that full-day schools would not open on Monday.

Transport has also been affected. The MTR Corporation is running a reduced service on most lines, with MTR Buses and in-town check-in for the Airport Express suspended.

Tram, ferry and most bus routes will also remain suspended with the T8 signal hoisted. The Airport Authority has urged passengers to check the status of their flight before heading out.

The city’s flag carrier Cathay Pacific Airways said delays and diversions to its flights today were possible depending on wind direction and weather, advising travelers to check the status of their flights before heading to the airport.

Meanwhile, as of 6 am the government call center had received three reports of fallen trees, but none of landslides or flooding. The Hospital Authority said it had not received any reports of anyone being admitted to public hospitals because of storm-related injuries.

Twenty-nine temporary shelters have been opened in the territory, and 92 people have sought refuge, according to authorities.