T8 Signal In Effect As Ma-on Threatens HK

The Hong Kong Observatory issued the No.8 Northeast Gale or Storm Signal at 7:25 pm on Wednesday as severe tropical storm Ma-on moves closer to Hong Kong.

The forecaster said that according to the present forecast track, Ma-on will move towards the coast of western Guangdong and is expected to be closest to the SAR on Thursday morning.

The observatory added that the No.8 signal will remain in force until at least 6 am.

The observatory warned the storm poses a considerable threat to Hong Kong as it is expected to skirt within about 200 kilometres south-southwest of the territory.

“Under the influence of storm surge and astronomical high tide, a high water level of around 3 metres above chart datum, or about 1 metre above the normal tide heights, is expected at Quarry Bay between 5 am and 9 am. The high water level may cause flooding in low-lying areas,” the observatory added.

The Islands District Office announced that the flood alert system put in place for Tai O residents has been activated, over fears of serious flooding there.

An emergency co-ordination centre will handle any evacuation, rescue and emergency relief efforts. Residents living in the low-lying areas of Tai O are advised to take shelter before any flooding occurs.

The Home Affairs Department said it had so far opened 30 temporary shelters and 120 people had sought refuge. According to the Hospital Authority, as at 9.30 pm, one person had been injured during the typhoon period and treated at the accident and emergency department of a public hospital.

______________________________