How Severe is Hong Kong's No. 10 Hurricane Signal? How Many Times Has It Been Issued in History?
TyphoonSays·防御问答 · Early warning signals · 更新 at 2026-07-16
What Does the No. 10 Hurricane Signal Mean?
In Hong Kong, the No. 10 Hurricane Signal is the highest level of tropical cyclone warning signals, representing extreme danger. When the Hong Kong Observatory issues a No. 10 Hurricane Signal, it means that the center of the typhoon is very close to Hong Kong or is passing directly over the city. At this time, most areas of Hong Kong will continue to be battered by hurricane-force winds, with average wind speeds reaching 118 km/h or more, and gusts may even far exceed this value.
Under such wind conditions, the destructive power is devastating. Roofs of low-rise buildings may be lifted off, trees may be uprooted or snapped, and unsecured outdoor items can become deadly "flying projectiles." For ordinary residents, this is not just a concept of "strong winds," but an emergency state requiring immediate implementation of the highest level of protective measures. Any non-essential outdoor activities must cease, and people outdoors should immediately seek shelter in sturdy structures.
Historical Frequency
Although the No. 10 Hurricane Signal sounds frightening, it does not occur frequently. Since the establishment of the modern tropical cyclone warning system in 1946, the number of times the No. 10 Hurricane Signal has been hoisted in Hong Kong has been relatively limited. As of 2023, the signal has been issued approximately 16 times in history (the exact number may vary slightly with the latest meteorological records, but generally remains between single digits and the teens).
The most recent No. 10 Hurricane Signal that attracted widespread attention was issued in September 2023, triggered by Super Typhoon SAOLA. Looking further back, Super Typhoon MANGKHUT in 2018 also caused Hong Kong to hoist the No. 10 Hurricane Signal, causing extensive infrastructure damage and prolonged stagnation of social operations. These data indicate that although the No. 10 Hurricane Signal is rare, when it does occur, it is often accompanied by super typhoons or severe typhoons with extremely strong destructive power. Therefore, the public must not let their guard down due to its rarity; every warning deserves our serious preparation.
Response Measures and Safety Advice
When the No. 10 Hurricane Signal is in effect, social operations usually enter a "standstill" state. By convention, most schools suspend classes, and most businesses and institutions stop work. However, please note that standards may vary by location, so please refer to announcements from local authorities. For home sheltering, it is recommended that you make the following preparations:
- Close windows and doors tightly: Check that all windows are locked securely. If necessary, tape glass in an "X" or asterisk pattern to prevent shattering and flying debris.
- Stay away from windows: Do not stand near windward windows to observe the storm, to avoid injury from broken glass.
- Stockpile supplies: Ensure you have sufficient drinking water, non-perishable food, flashlights, and spare batteries at home in case of power and water outages.
- Avoid going outside: Unless facing a life-threatening emergency, absolutely do not go outside. The brief calm during the passage of the eye of the storm is highly deceptive; fierce winds may strike again from the opposite direction at any moment.
Staying calm and paying attention to the latest information released through official channels is key to coping with extreme weather. Real-time typhoon tracks can be queried at TyphoonSays (taifengshuo.com)
This article is typhoonsay's original copy content, and the local policy standards are based on the local government's latest release.