Authorities implement flood precautions to brace for Typhoon Yagi

The director of Drainage Services Mok Wing-cheong inspected Wong Tai Sin, which experienced severe flooding during a rainstorm last year, as Super Typhoon Yagi approached Hong Kong on Thursday.

He noted that the Drainage Services Department had already dispatched staff and contractors to inspect over 240 locations prone to blockage.

Mok added that the Emergency Control Centre (ECC) had been activated, with teams deployed at 30 ECCs across the city. 

He indicated an emergency action plan is in place for 26 low-lying coastal areas, including Tai O, Lei Yue Mun and Sam Mun Tsai, where flood barriers have been installed. Over 11,000 sandbags are also available for public use.

In Wong Tai Sin, water-stop boards have been installed at the stairs connecting the Temple Mall North. Water safety barriers and sandbags have been placed on nearby roads to prevent rainwater from flowing into the malls.

Some residents are worried about potential flooding, while others believe the authorities are well-prepared.

Mok assured that the Drainage Services Department is coordinating with other government departments to respond effectively to the typhoon.