HKO says new tropical cyclone poses limited threat but will bring windy weekend to city

The Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) said on Friday that tropical cyclone Bualoi is expected to pose a low direct threat to Hong Kong as it tracks across the South China Sea, but warned residents to prepare for windy conditions and rough seas over the weekend.

The weather forecaster indicated that Bualoi is forecast to intensify gradually over the next day or two while moving in the general direction of the seas south of Hainan Island, maintaining a significant distance from the territory.

Despite the storm's projected path away from Hong Kong, the HKO advised the public to stay away from shorelines and suspend water sports due to potentially hazardous marine conditions.

The HKO explained that the combination of a ridge of high pressure over southeastern China and the distant storm will result in noticeably windy conditions along the southern China coast. Seas are expected to be rough with swells throughout the weekend.

Depending on changes in local wind strength, the Observatory will consider issuing the Strong Monsoon Signal to alert the public to the sustained windy weather. The public is advised to monitor the HKO's latest weather announcements for updates.

(Marco Lam)