Tapah Storm Batters Hong Kong, 60,000 Evacuated in China
Schools, flights, and transport services shut as winds reach 170 kmph; thousands evacuated in Guangdong
- Winds reached speeds up to 170 kmph in Hong Kong and Guangdong.
- Typhoon Signal No. 8 issued by Hong Kong Observatory.
- 100+ flights cancelled; metro running at reduced intervals.
- Schools shut in Hong Kong and Shenzhen for safety.
GG News Bureau
Hong Kong, 8th Sep: Hong Kong and parts of neighboring southern China are reeling under the impact of tropical storm Tapah, which brought winds of up to 170 kmph and heavy rain on Monday. While no landslides or flooding have been reported so far, authorities have taken extensive precautionary measures, including shutting down schools, flights, and public transport.
The Hong Kong Observatory issued the Typhoon Signal No. 8, the city’s third-highest storm warning, which will remain in force until at least 11 am local time. Businesses were advised to remain closed, while schools will stay shut for the entire day, regardless of whether the warning level is lowered later.
At Hong Kong International Airport near Lantau Island, wind speeds reached a sustained 101 kmph, with gusts peaking at 151 kmph. More than 100 flights have been cancelled, and ferry, bus, and most train services suspended. The metro continues to run at reduced intervals.
Authorities in Shenzhen, across the border in mainland China, also shut down schools and implemented strict safety measures. In Guangdong province, nearly 60,000 residents were evacuated to safer locations by Sunday afternoon.
Meteorologists confirmed that Tapah made landfall around 8:50 am local time in Taishan, Guangdong, and is gradually moving away from Hong Kong. A three-tier rainfall alert system was activated early Monday, with the lowest-level rain warning issued at 4:55 am.
Officials said precautionary evacuations and transport suspensions will remain until weather conditions improve.
