T10 signal to remain in force until 3pm as Typhoon Wipha skirts HK

Typhoon Wipha is skirting about 50 kilometers south of the Hong Kong Observatory, and the forecaster said the Hurricane Signal, No. 10 is expected to remain in force until 3pm.

The T10 signal was issued at 9.20am. The Observatory said it will consider issuing the Gale or Storm Signal, No. 8 thereafter, depending on the extent of weakening of local winds.

Wipha is forecast to move west at about 22 kilometres per hour across the vicinity of the Pearl River Estuary, towards the coast of western Guangdong.

The Observatory said Wipha has started to depart from Hong Kong, but its associated hurricane-force winds are still affecting the southwestern part of the territory.

Winds are changing gradually to east to southeasterlies locally. Areas that were previously sheltered may become exposed. The intense rain bands of Wipha are also bringing frequent heavy squally showers to Hong Kong. Seas will be phenomenal with swells.

In the past hour, the maximum sustained winds recorded at Ngong Ping, Cheung Chau and Tap Mun were 171, 119 and 105 kilometres per hour with maximum gusts exceeding 234, 173 and 129 kilometres per hour, respectively.

Under the influence of storm surge, the water level rose to about 3 meters above Chart Datum at Tai Po Kau this morning. 

Members of the public are advised to remain on high alert, stay where they are sheltered, and beware of destructive winds. They should also avoid engaging in water sports. 

(Updated at 12.54pm)