Guide to Typhoon Season in Hong Kong

Typhoon season in Hong Kong is an important topic, especially for residents and travelers. Let’s dive into the details:

1. Duration and Severity:

• Hong Kong’s typhoon season typically extends from May to early November. However, the peak period occurs from July to September when there’s a 50% chance or greater of a typhoon hitting the region during those months.

• The severity of typhoons in Hong Kong varies. Storm winds usually last only a few hours unless the eye of the typhoon passes close by. In such cases, high winds may persist for about 8 hours.

• Interestingly, since 1987, there have been only two direct hits by typhoons and one tropical cyclone in Hong Kong. So, while typhoons are a part of the seasonal weather, they don’t pose an extreme danger to tourists.

2. Preparedness and Safety Measures:

• Hong Kong is well-prepared for typhoons. The city has an effective storm warning system that alerts residents and visitors about approaching typhoons.

• Buildings, including those where tourists might seek shelter, are constructed to withstand typhoon conditions.

• In recent history, typhoons have hardly posed a significant danger to tourists. For instance, during the super typhoon Mangkhut in 2018 (the largest ever recorded), Hong Kong sustained minimal casualties despite the storm’s intensity.

3. Weather Information for Peak Typhoon Season:

• Let’s break down the peak months:

  • July: There’s almost a 60% chance of experiencing a typhoon in July. Expect hot and rainy weather with average high temperatures around 32 °C (90 °F).

  • August: Similar to July, August also has a 60% chance of typhoons. High temperatures average around 31 °C (88 °F).

  • September: The chance of a typhoon drops slightly to 50%. September remains rainy and humid, with average highs at 30 °C (86 °F).

• Typhoons bring substantial rainfall during these months, contributing to the overall annual precipitation.

Certainly! Let’s delve into the Hong Kong Typhoon Warning System, an essential part of the city’s preparedness for tropical cyclones. Hong Kong, being a coastal metropolis in the western Pacific, is no stranger to typhoons. Here’s what you need to know:

Hong Kong Typhoon Warning System

1. Classification of Tropical Cyclones:

   • Tropical cyclones are categorized based on their intensity. The Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) classifies them as follows:

     • Tropical Depression: A weak system with sustained winds up to 38 mph (62 km/h).

     • Tropical Storm: Winds between 39 mph (63 km/h) and 73 mph (118 km/h).

     • Typhoon: Stronger winds exceeding 73 mph (118 km/h).

     • Severe Typhoon: Even stronger, with winds exceeding 103 mph (166 km/h).

     • Super Typhoon: The most intense category, with winds exceeding 150 mph (241 km/h).

2. Tropical Cyclone Warning Signals:

   • The HKO issues warning signals to inform the public about approaching typhoons. These signals help residents and visitors take necessary precautions:

     • T1 Signal: Indicates that a storm is nearby and may develop into a typhoon.

     • T3 Signal: Warns of possible flooding in low-lying areas due to the approaching storm.

     • T8 Signal: Issued when gale-force winds are expected within 12 hours. This is a critical signal, and people should secure their homes and stay indoors.

     • Storm Signal 9 and T10: These are the highest signals. When they’re in effect, all safety measures should be completed (such as seeking safe shelter, stocking up on essentials, and taping large windows).

3. Precautionary Measures during Typhoon Warnings:

   • When a warning signal is in force, follow these guidelines:

     • Stay informed through official channels (HKO, news updates, and government advisories).

     • Secure loose objects outdoors to prevent them from becoming projectiles.

     • Stock up on essential supplies like water, non-perishable food, and batteries.

     • Ensure your home is well-prepared (close windows, reinforce doors, and charge devices).

     • Avoid going out during the storm unless absolutely necessary.

4. Tropical Cyclone Names:

   • The HKO assigns names to tropical cyclones in the western North Pacific and the South China Sea. These names are used for communication and tracking.

   • Starting from 2024, the list of names includes both male and female names, alternating each year.

5. Educational Material:

   • The HKO provides educational resources on tropical cyclones, including pamphlets and online material. These resources help raise awareness and promote safety.

For more detailed information, you can explore the Hong Kong Observatory’s Tropical Cyclone Main Page. Remember, staying informed and prepared is crucial during typhoon season.