Tropical storm Kai Tak approaches Hong Kong – Observatory issues number 1 signal

by admin on August 16, 2012

HONG KONG 15 August, 2012 – Hong Kong Observatory has issued the No. 1 Standby Signal as tropical storm Kai Tak edges closer to the territory.

At 11pm on Wednesday, Kai Tak was estimated to be about 660 kilometres east-south-east of Hong Kong, and was forecast to move north-west or west-north-west across the nothern part of the South China Sea.

At 6 a.m., Severe Tropical Storm Kai-tak was estimated to be about 500 kilometres southeast of Hong Kong (near 19.2 degrees north 117.7 degrees east) and is forecast to move west-northwest at about 22 kilometres per hour towards the coast of western Guangdong.

Kai-tak sped up and adopted a westward track in the early morning and intensified gradually. According to the present forecast track, Kai-tak will edge closer to the South China Coast during the day. Local winds will also then strengthen progressively. The Observatory will consider issuing the
No. 3 Strong Wind Signal around noon.

Precautionary Announcements with No. 1 Signal

1. Some precautions against damage should be taken now, gutters and drains should be cleared of obstructions. Hinges, bolts, locks and shutters of windows and doors should be checked.

2. Since there will be swells, you are advised to stay away from the shoreline and not to engage in water sports.

3. Listen to radio, watch TV or browse the Hong Kong Observatory’s web site for information on the tropical cyclone.

4. Those who have definite duties during a tropical cyclone should now remain on call or contact their control centres from time to time.

5. If you are planning to visit Guangdong, Macau, any of the off-shore islands or remote parts of Hong Kong, you are reminded that changes in weather may affect your plans.

6. All small vessels including low power vessels and fishing vessels in open sea should seek shelter as soon as possible. Please take any precautions necessary for small vessels and secure them properly with moorings.

Stock Photo ID : hkdigit-20120816-060650 (flickr)

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