T10 Wipha in Mongkok

Normally, typhoons announce themselves in Hong Kong with heavy rain… Wipha arrived, almost exactly as the HK Observatory Storm Track predicted, but with barely a splash of liquid sunshine.

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And even after the T10 signal was hoisted, Mongkok was breezy but dry until late afternoon when the walls of rain arrived and I retreated indoors for warm, tasty lai cha (HK-style milk tea).

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Gotta keep my hair tidy even in a typhoon

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Chapeau to all the restaurant and MTR staff who stayed open to feed and transport workers and tourists alike, offering shelter from the elements.

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T10 Super Typhoon Saola Batters Hong Kong

Surely influenced by the Hello Hong Kong marketing campaign, Super Typhoon Saola saw the HK Observatory raise the T10 storm signal for just the 16th time in over 100 years as Saola’s wind speeds topped 220km/h (135 mph).

Super Typhoon Saola

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Click on any photo to see the full gallery of images.

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Very Hot Weather Warnings – But No Water

In recent weeks as temperatures have risen the government has issued almost daily Very Hot Weather Warnings.

Among the obvious, but welcome hot weather reminders is ‘Drink plenty of water’ which is sensible advice – except that the LCSD has closed all the public drinking fountains.

Far more people are likely to be injured or suffer from the heat than catch Covid-19 from the metal surface of a water fountain.

Hot Weather Warning

The Hong Kong Observatory has issued the Very Hot Weather Warning.

To prevent heatstroke, avoid prolonged activities outdoors.

If engaged in outdoor work or activities, wear a wide-brimmed hat and light-coloured, loose-fitting clothes. Stay in shaded areas as much as possible.

Drink plenty of water, and avoid beverages containing caffeine or alcohol.

If you feel sick, consult a doctor right away.