Signal No. 8 to remain hoisted until at least 10 a.m.

Typhoon Signal No. 8 will remain in force until at least 10 a.m. today as Severe Tropical Storm Tapah continues to affect Macau, according to the Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau (SMG).

In an update from the bureau, the tropical storm currently in the northern South China Sea is forecast to move north to northwest and strengthen as it tracks toward the western coast of Guangdong.

Typhoon Tapah is expected to pass within 150 kilometers southwest of Macau this morning, bringing winds of force 8 to 9, heavy showers, and thunderstorms.

The storm has already disrupted transportation across the city.

According to the Civil Aviation Authority, affected flight operations yesterday included 35 canceled flights, one delayed flight, and four rescheduled flights, while 47 flights scheduled for today have already been canceled.

Meanwhile, the Education and Youth Development Bureau (DSEDJ) confirmed that all classes at the non-tertiary level are suspended today.

Higher education institutions will decide their arrangements according to relevant regulations. Schools were also reminded to install floodgates, check facilities, and relocate equipment as preventive measures against flooding.

As of 11:59 p.m. yesterday, the Civil Protection Operations Center recorded two incidents in the city.

Both cases involved the removal of hazardous objects at risk of falling, such as concrete, signboards, windows, canopies, or other hanging items.

Also, the Social Welfare Bureau reported that as of midnight, a total of nine people were using the temporary shelter.

Meanwhile, the SMG warned of possible flooding in the Inner Harbour today due to the combined effect of storm surge and astronomical tide, with water levels reaching 0.5 to 1 meter.
A yellow storm surge warning remains in effect.

The Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) also hoisted the No. 8 Southeast Gale or Storm Signal at 9:20 p.m. yesterday.
The likelihood of issuing higher tropical cyclone warning signals is relatively low.

The HKO added that the No. 8 Gale or Storm Signal will remain in force at least until 11 a.m. today.

Editor’s Note: The Times will not be published today, Sept. 8, due to adverse weather conditions caused by the typhoon.