Hong Kong: Two tropical storms expected September 12-16

Event

Two tropical storms are forecast to pass near Hong Kong later this week. The first, with maximum sustained winds of around 85 km/h (52 mph), is expected to pass south of Hong Kong on Wednesday, September 12, heading towards Vietnam. The second storm, Mangkhut, is currently classified as a powerful typhoon; it is expected to have a more severe impact on Hong Kong, with maximum sustained winds of up to 220 km/h (136 mph). If Supertyphoon Mangkhut follows its current forecasted track, it may pass close to Hong Kong on Sunday, September 16. These storms could have a significant impact on transportation.

Context

Tropical cyclones and typhoons are common in the Western Pacific from May through November.

Advice

Individuals cuurently present in Hong Kong are advised to monitor local weather reports, anticipate transportation and power disruptions, obey instructions issued by the local authorities, and avoid flood-prone areas until the situation stabilizes. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.