What Should Hong Kong Residents Pay Special Attention to for Typhoon Preparedness?
TyphoonSays·防御问答 · District of Typhoon · 更新 at 2026-07-23
Hong Kong's Typhoon Warning Signals
The Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) uses an independent typhoon signal system, which differs from the meteorological departments in mainland China. Higher numbers indicate stronger winds:
- Standby Signal No. 1: A tropical cyclone is centered within approximately 800 kilometers of Hong Kong.
- Strong Wind Signal No. 3: Mean wind speed near sea level reaches 41 to 62 km/h.
- Gale or Storm Signal No. 8 (divided into four directions: Northeast, Southeast, Southwest, Northwest): Wind speeds reach 63 to 117 km/h.
- Increasing Gale or Storm Signal No. 9: Wind force is significantly increasing.
- Hurricane Signal No. 10: Wind speeds reach 118 km/h or above.
Hong Kong's warning system differs from the China Meteorological Administration's (CMA) four-tier "Blue-Yellow-Orange-Red" typhoon warning standards. For specific meanings, please refer to the announcements issued by the Hong Kong Observatory.
School and Work Suspension Arrangements Under Different Signals
Generally, when Signal No. 8 or higher is in effect, government headquarters, district offices, kindergartens, primary and secondary schools are typically closed, the Hong Kong Stock Exchange suspends trading, bus routes are significantly reduced or suspended, and ferry services are halted (the MTR usually maintains limited service).
Special reminders:
- Kindergartens and schools for children with physical disabilities usually suspend classes before Signal No. 3 is issued.
- Work suspension arrangements for private institutions are determined by employers; please refer to company notifications for details.
- Standards may vary by location; always refer to the latest announcements from the Hong Kong SAR Government and relevant authorities.
It is advisable to familiarize yourself in advance with the typhoon emergency plans of your company, school, and childcare providers, as well as the locations of nearby temporary shelters.
Home Wind Protection and Supply Preparation
Hong Kong has a high density of skyscrapers and glass curtain walls, making windows a vulnerable point during typhoons:
- Check all windows in advance to ensure they are tightly closed. Apply tape to glass to prevent shattering and flying debris; install storm shutters if possible.
- Remove flower pots, clothes drying racks, outdoor furniture, and other items from balconies that could be blown away.
- Clear drainage ditches inside and outside the house to avoid blockages and flooding during heavy rain.
- Prepare flashlights, spare batteries, power banks, and a three-day supply of drinking water and non-perishable food.
- Residents in low-lying areas (such as Lei Yue Mun and parts of Heng Fa Chuen along the coast) should pay special attention to the risks of storm surges and flooding.
Outdoor Safety and Precautions After Signals Are Lowered
Do not go to the seaside, piers, coastal dams, or engage in water activities while signals are in effect. Do not venture out for "typhoon chasing" or photography—strong winds, falling objects, and high waves can be fatal.
Do not let your guard down even after signals are lowered:
- Wind direction may change as the cyclone passes, and strong winds may persist for some time.
- Heavy rain can trigger landslides; avoid approaching slopes or retaining walls.
- Roads may have fallen trees, standing water, or loose signboards; exercise caution when traveling.
- Continue to monitor the HKO's latest tropical cyclone tracks and heavy rain warnings.
During typhoon season (approximately May to November each year), it is recommended to keep wind-proof supplies at home, monitor weather changes, and follow the principle of "prepare early, heed the signals, and stay indoors."
For real-time typhoon tracks and the latest warning information, you can check TaifengSays (taifengshuo.com).
This article is typhoonsay's original copy content, and the local policy standards are based on the local government's latest release.