HONG KONG – Schools and businesses in Hong Kong closed this morning following a high-level typhoon warning issued at midnight as Tropical Storm Toraji passed near the southern part of the island, November 14.
The Hong Kong Observatory forecasted that Toraji, named after a Korean flower, would gradually weaken and move away from Hong Kong throughout the day. As wind speeds lessen, the typhoon warning is set to be downgraded from Signal 8, the highest level, to Signal 3 by 10:20 a.m. local time, one hour ahead of Thailand. This will allow many businesses to reopen today, though central streets remain quiet, with light storm damage visible.
The Hong Kong Stock Exchange opened for trading this morning, marking the first time it remained operational during a typhoon warning. The Hong Kong Airport Authority also reported that the airport and flights are continuing as normal. Under typical circumstances, a Signal 8 warning would lead to significant reductions in public transportation and advisories for residents to stay indoors. (NNT)
