Typhoon Wipha Hits Hong Kong and Macau with Ferocious Winds and Rain

Typhoon Wipha is unleashing heavy rain and strong winds on Hong Kong and Macau, with expectations of intensified conditions as it approaches coastal China.

Typhoon Wipha slammed into the Chinese territories of Hong Kong and Macau on Sunday, causing significant disruption due to extreme rainfall and high winds. The tropical cyclone is ranked similarly to a Category 2 Atlantic hurricane, with sustained winds reaching approximately 106 miles per hour. According to the Hong Kong Observatory, the storm has already led to heavy showers and increased sea swells as it moved along the southern coast of Hong Kong.

The typhoon is anticipated to strengthen further as it heads west towards Macau, with forecasts suggesting landfall near the southern Chinese cities of Shenzhen and Zhanjiang in Guangdong Province on late Sunday. Chinese meteorological officials have indicated that Wipha is likely to hit the coast with winds classified as Category 2.

In response to the approaching storm, Hong Kong issued a No. 10 hurricane signal, marking the first such warning since 2023, with Macau following suit with an equivalent alert. Authorities have urged the public to remain indoors and away from windows in anticipation of flying debris.

The impact of Wipha has been felt heavily at Hong Kong International Airport, where over 400 flights have been rescheduled. Meanwhile, Macau's international airport reported nearly 200 flight cancellations due to the severe weather conditions. Various southern Chinese cities have also taken precautionary measures, including closing workplaces and ports, suspending train services, and canceling additional flights.

As part of preparation, Zhuhai, a city housing around 2.5 million residents located in Wipha's projected trajectory, closed down construction sites, parks, ferries, piers, and outdoor playgrounds. In Zhanjiang, schools and several workplaces suspended operations until the storm passes.

Authorities warn that after making landfall, Typhoon Wipha is likely to continue moving inland across southern China before potentially moving offshore again, with Vietnam in its trajectory. This situation is continuously evolving, and further updates will be provided as developments occur.

Joyce Lau contributed to this report from Hong Kong, with Yan Zhuang providing insights from Seoul on breaking news.