T8 signal seen to stay for most of the day, HK Observatory says

Dark skies are seen hovering above Hong Kong as the storm signal No. 8 is hoisted over the city.

Classes in day schools and services in some government offices in Hong Kong were suspended after Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8 was hoisted over the city early Tuesday morning.

This means winds with average speeds of 63 kilometres per hour or more are expected, according to the Hong Kong Observatory.

The Observatory added the storm signal is expected to stay in force for most of the day.

Services at the Philippines Consulate General office are suspended, and applicants with appointments scheduled today may choose to apply on another day of their choice.

Immigration services at the Wan Chai headquarters as well as its branches are also temporarily suspended.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) testing for foreign domestic workers set to join employers will also temporarily stop due to inclement weather. Domestic workers affected by the suspension can call the testing hotline 1836 133 to reschedule their appointment once the storm signal is lowered.

At 10 a.m., Tropical Storm Nangka was spotted about 460 kilometres south-southwest of Hong Kong.

The storm is forecast to move west or west-northwest at about 22 kilometres per hour towards the vicinity of Hainan Island, strengthening gradually.

The Observatory said gales and strong rains are expected, as the effects of ‘Nangka’ combine with those of the northeast monsoon.