Hong Kong coastal residents should prepare for strengthening winds and cooler temperatures as Tropical Cyclone Fung-wong approaches, prompting the Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) to issue preliminary warnings. The HKO anticipates raising the Standby Signal No. 1 after Sunday lunchtime on November 10th, signaling that the storm is expected to enter the 800-kilometer proximity zone later that day. While current projections show the storm curving north toward Taiwan, its interaction with the prevailing northeast monsoon will significantly impact local weather conditions through midweek.
Current Trajectory and Warning Signals
The system, currently centered near Luzon, is tracking west-northwest before an anticipated shift to a more northerly route over the northeastern South China Sea. Fung-wong’s closest pass to the territory is now forecast for the night of Tuesday, November 11th, skirting approximately 450 kilometers to the southeast at typhoon intensity.
The HKO confirms the potential for escalating warning signals, possibly including higher tropical cyclone warnings or the Strong Monsoon Signal, depending on the storm’s speed, proximity, and wind patterns. Local winds are expected to significantly gain strength from late Tuesday into Wednesday, with offshore and high ground areas potentially experiencing winds reaching Force 6 on the Beaufort scale.
The storm’s current path suggests it will continue toward Taiwan, where it is projected to gradually weaken due to the influence of the cooler, drier northeast monsoon already affecting the South China coast.
Dual Impact: Storm and Monsoon
The convergence of the tropical cyclone and the monsoon will dramatically alter Hong Kong’s weather pattern over the next few days. While today (November 9th) remains mostly sunny, hot, and dry, with temperatures peaking around 26 degrees Celsius, weather deterioration is imminent.
Key effects anticipated from Monday:
- Temperature Drop: Urban temperatures are expected to dip substantially, potentially falling to around 20 degrees Celsius by Thursday, November 13th.
- Strengthening Winds: Expect breezy conditions, particularly on Tuesday and Wednesday, with strong winds offshore and on elevated terrain.
- Coastal Concerns: Low-lying areas along the coast should anticipate minor flooding risks from late Monday night into the early hours of Tuesday morning due to increased sea swell.
The nine-day forecast illustrates this shift: Monday remains hot and dry (22–28°C), but Tuesday marks the start of cooler, cloudier conditions (21–25°C) with an increased chance of showers and persistent swells.
Staying Prepared and Informed
Meteorologists caution that uncertainty remains regarding the exact turning point of Fung-wong and the rate at which it will weaken once it enters the South China Sea. This uncertainty necessitates close monitoring of official updates.
Actionable Takeaways for Residents:
- Monitor HKO: Residents are strongly advised to continuously follow the latest tropical cyclone updates and forecasts from the Hong Kong Observatory.
- Secure Property: Coastal residents should take preparatory measures against minor coastal flooding and secure balconies and loose outdoor items ahead of strengthening winds.
- Dress Accordingly: Plan for the significant temperature drop over the midweek period, moving from Saturday’s warmth to Thursday’s coolness.
As Fung-wong tracks away towards the end of the week, conditions are expected to gradually improve, returning to mainly fine, dry weather heading into the following weekend, with temperatures stabilizing between 21 and 26 degrees Celsius.