T time.
The Observatory this morning issued its T1 standby warning signal as tropical storm Barijat moves closer to Hong Kong.
The signal means a tropical cyclone is within about 800 kilometers and may affect the city.
Barijat, which formed from a low pressure area to the east, was about 460 kilometers east-southeast of Hong Kong as of 11am. For you detail-hungry geography nuts out there, that’s about 20.8 degrees north 118.3 degrees east.
The storm “is forecast to move west at about 12 kilometres per hour in the general direction of the coast of western Guangdong.”
The chance of a T3 warning — aka the Strong Wind Signal No. 3 — being issued today, however, is not high. The weather service said “the circulation of Barijat is relatively small.”
“According to the present forecast track, its associated squalls and showers will maintain a distance from Hong Kong, and local winds will not strengthen significantly today.”
With the temperature currently hovering around 30 degrees celsius, the forecast for today is for “mainly fine but hazy” conditions tending to hot in the afternoon with moderate northerly winds.
Expect squally showers in the next couple of days with the rain easing off to bring sunny periods on Friday.
Still, it’s good to be alert. Here’s what precautions the Observatory recommends on a T1 signal:
- Windows and doors should be checked.
- Drains should be cleared of leaves and rubbish. People in low-lying areas should take precautions against flooding.
- Those who have duties during a tropical cyclone should now remain on call.
- There may be swells, you are advised to stay away from the shoreline.
- Fishing vessels and low power vessels in open sea should seek shelter as soon as possible and be secured properly with moorings.
- Listen to radio, watch TV or browse the Hong Kong Observatory’s website and mobile app for the latest information on the tropical cyclone.
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