Typhoon Signal No. 1 to Be Raised Early Saturday as Tropical Storm Wipha Approaches

• Macao’s Meteorological Bureau to raise no. 1 typhoon signal early Saturday as storm Wipha nears.
• Residents are advised to secure outdoor items and monitor weather developments closely amid typhoon warnings.
• Hong Kong’s observatory may issue a no. 3 signal, potentially escalating to no. 8 due to Wipha’s approach.
• Travelers near the Pearl River Estuary should be aware of potentially hazardous storm conditions this weekend.
• Macao currently under a yellow hot weather alert with temperatures surpassing 33°C, resulting in increased heat-stroke cases.

Macao Prepares for Tropical Storm Wipha’s Impact

Typhoon Watch Issued as Wipha Approaches Macao In the early hours of Saturday, Macao’s Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau (SMG) is set to raise the number 1 typhoon signal due to the proximity of tropical storm Wipha. The storm is moving within an 800-kilometre radius of the territory, prompting officials to urge residents to stay informed about the latest developments concerning tropical cyclones. As a precaution, individuals are advised to identify loose objects outside their homes that may get blown away or damaged by potential strong winds, including plant pots and garden furniture, while also ensuring that drains are cleared to avoid flooding incidents. Authorities recommend checking the stability of scaffolding and hoardings, plus boat owners might want to consider heading to safer waters if necessary.

Macao Faces Heat and Typhoon Warning

Rainfall and API Alert Amidst Rising Temperatures In addition to typhoon concerns, Macao is currently under a hot weather alert, categorized as amarelo (yellow), with temperatures expected to soar past 33°C. Early reports indicate that it is already over 30°C, specifically marking a high of 31.7°C at Porto Exterior. Such extreme conditions have led to an increase in health concerns, with local helplines like Peng On Tung reporting around 10 cases of heatstroke daily. Moreover, while residents keep an eye on the weather, the region’s meteorological service is also monitoring Wipha’s path closely, as the tropical cyclone is forecast to move toward coastal areas of western Guangdong, maintaining an element of uncertainty regarding its strength and exact trajectory.

Hong Kong Prepares for Potential Typhoon Warnings

Hong Kong’s Preparedness Underlines Regional Alert Just 60 kilometres from Macao, Hong Kong’s observatory is gearing up to issue a number 3 typhoon signal as storm Wipha approaches the Pearl River Estuary. There exists a strong possibility that a no. 8 signal will be activated, which would indicate gale force winds expected at sea level with a velocity ranging from 63 to 117 kilometres per hour, along with potential gusts exceeding 180 kilometres per hour. Such measures suggest that authorities are taking the possible impact of the storm very seriously, and remain vigilant. The no. 8 signal serves as a reminder of the regional interconnectedness in facing extreme weather, highlighting how closely both territories are tied in response and preparedness.

The swiftly changing weather conditions indicate that Macao is capable of facing dual challenges: the approaching tropical storm Wipha and excessive heat. The issuance of the no. 1 typhoon signal urges residents to act prudently to safeguard their property and health. With meteorological agencies actively monitoring both the typhoon and ongoing extreme heat, residents must remain vigilant and heed warnings. Effective communication and preparation are essential as Macao and nearby Hong Kong brace for the potential impacts of storm Wipha and persistent high temperatures.