Macao to Raise Typhoon Signal as Tropical Storm Wipha Approaches
- Macao to raise no. 1 typhoon signal early Saturday as Wipha approaches.
- Residents are warned to secure outdoor items and stay informed about the storm.
- Hong Kong anticipates moving to a no. 3 signal, possibly escalating to no. 8.
Macao Prepares for Typhoon Signal No. 1
Macao meteorologists are preparing to raise the no. 1 typhoon signal early Saturday due to the nearing tropical storm, known as Wipha. The storm has come within an 800-kilometer radius of Macao, prompting officials to take precautionary measures. Residents are advised to stay updated on the storm’s progress and to secure outdoor items, such as furniture and plant pots, which could be at risk during potential high winds.
Tropical Storm Wipha’s Expected Path
In a dispatch released around 3:30 am, the Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau, also referred to by its Portuguese initials, SMG, outlined expectations that Wipha will likely move toward the western coast of Guangdong. Notably, the exact path and intensity of the cyclone remain uncertain, and SMG is committed to monitoring its development closely. Meanwhile, Hong Kong’s local observatory, located about 60 kilometers from Macao, plans to issue a no. 3 signal and warns that a no. 8 signal may also be applied as Wipha approaches the Pearl River Estuary over the weekend.
Continued Heat Amid Storm Warnings
The Hong Kong warning system stipulates that a no. 8 signal signals the presence of gale or storm-force winds, which can range from 63 to 117 kilometers per hour, with gusts potentially reaching up to 180 kilometers per hour. In addition to the storm developments, Macao is currently under a amarelo (yellow) hot weather alert, indicating anticipated temperatures exceeding 33°C. Reports show temperature readings above 30°C at all weather monitoring stations, with a peak of 31.7°C noted at Porto Exterior. Consequently, local helpline Peng On Tung has reported handling approximately 10 heatstroke cases daily due to the oppressive heat.
As tropical storm Wipha approaches, the no. 1 typhoon signal will be raised in Macao, urging residents to take necessary precautions. Hong Kong is also preparing for the impact, potentially issuing a no. 3 signal. Simultaneously, the region is grappling with extreme heat, as temperatures are uncomfortably high, leading to increased cases of heat-related illnesses.
