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| Storm Toraji's path (HKO photo) |
The Hong Hong Observatory lowered Typhoon Signal No. 8 to Strong Wind Signal, No. 3 at 10:30 am today, releasing the territory from a virtual lockdown that saw bus routes suspended, streets deserted and most government offices closed in the morning,
In an
announcement, the Observatory said winds with mean speeds of 41 to 62 kilometees
per hour are expected as Tropical Storm Toraji continued moving westward toward
Vietnam, after coming to about about 130 kilometres south of Hong Kong.
“Toraji
continues to weaken,” the Observatory said. “Local winds are expected to
moderate gradually but local winds remain generally strong at first with
occasional gale force winds at offshore areas and on high ground.”
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| Pindutin para sa detalye |
“The Strong
Wind Signal, No. 3 will remain in force for most of the time during the day
today. When the threat posed to Hong Kong by Toraji is further reduced, the
Observatory will issue the Standby Signal, No. 1 or cancel all tropical cyclone
warning signals,” it added.
With the reduced
threat, government offices had begun reopening by mid-morning and operations will return to
normal in the afternoon.
The Immigration Department said services at the Immigration Headquarters and all Branch Offices, Registration of Persons Offices, and Births, Deaths and Marriage Registries will resume at 12:30pm.
The Judiciary announced that all the courts and tribunals that will reopen at 12:20pm. and hearings that were scheduled in the morning will be held at 2:30pm.
Meanwhile, the
Observatory issued the usual precautions, such as watching out for
hidden danger to personal safety.
“Strong
winds are still blowing. You should not relax taking precautions. Beware of
falling objects in winds. Do not touch electric cables that have been blown
loose,” it added.
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| Basahin ang detalye! |
“Drivers using highways and flyovers should be alert to violent gusts,”the Observatory said.
“You are advised to stay away from the shoreline and not to engage in water sports,” it added.
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