Mass Flight Cancellations as Typhoon Hato Approaches Hong Kong

As Hong Kong braces for typhoon Hato, mass flights cancellations ensue. As of daybreak, approximately 420 flights have been cancelled, according to Hong Kong Airport Authorities. Cathay Pacific initiated the cancellations before Hong Kong Airlines and others followed suit.

Hong Kong’s highest storm warning, signal no. 10, has been triggered by typhoon Hato. Although it is not uncommon for Hong Kong to be hit by typhoons between July to October, a signal no. 10 warning has only been issued three times since 1997. The last of which occurred in 2012 for typhoon Vicente. A signal No. 10 indicates that hurricane force winds are expected, with sustained speed reaching upwards from 118 km/h. Gusts may also exceed 220km/h.

The worst of typhoon Hato is expected to be felt on Wednesday afternoon as it skirts 100km west of the city. In preparation for it, daytime bus services, ferries, airport express line and schools in Hong Kong are all forced to close. Severe flood warnings have been issued, especially in low-lying areas and obscure islands. Also, ferry services to and from Macau have halted till further notice.

After Hong Kong, the typhoon is forecasted to strike the neighbouring Guangdong province in China.