Macau is preparing for a direct hit from Typhoon Wipha, which is expected to bring strong winds, heavy rainfall, and the risk of flooding starting tonight and into Sunday. The Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau (SMG) announced that Tropical Cyclone Signal No. 3 will be issued at 5:30 p.m. today (Saturday), with higher signals likely to follow as the storm edges closer to the Pearl River Estuary.
Wipha, currently tracking northwest towards the southern coast of Guangdong, is forecast to have its most significant impact on Macau early Sunday. According to the SMG, winds will intensify overnight, with squally showers and thunderstorms sweeping the city by morning. The likelihood of Tropical Cyclone Signal No. 8 being issued between midnight and early Sunday is high. A further escalation to Signal No. 9 during the day on Sunday is being considered, with the bureau describing the probability as “medium to relatively high.”
The Hong Kong Observatory raised its own Signal No. 3 earlier this afternoon, noting that Wipha’s outer rainbands and associated winds are already affecting the region. AI-powered forecasting models predict the storm will make landfall on Hailing Island around 6 p.m. Sunday. In the meantime, both Macau and Hong Kong will remain under threat of intense downpours and thunderstorms, especially along coastal areas.
A blue storm surge warning was issued in Macau at 2:00 p.m., with meteorologists warning of possible flooding in low-lying areas and the Inner Harbour. The SMG said it is closely monitoring the interaction between Wipha’s rainfall and the astronomical high tide, which could lead to water level surges.
Authorities in both SARs are urging the public to take immediate precautions, including securing windows, avoiding waterfront areas, and staying updated on official weather bulletins.
“Due to uncertainties in Wipha’s path and strength, residents should not let their guard down,” the SMG stated.
Although Wipha is expected to weaken gradually after landfall, unstable conditions will persist. The week ahead will remain wet and unsettled across southern China, with lingering squalls and high humidity levels forecast.
As Macau braces for potentially the strongest storm of the season so far, authorities are on high alert for disruptions to transport, business, and public services starting tonight.
No Comments