Schools, businesses, and public services across Hong Kong were suspended on Monday after Tropical Storm Tapah swept past the territory, prompting the Typhoon Signal No. 8 the city’s third-highest storm alert.
The storm tracked about 170 kilometers southwest of Hong Kong, bringing fierce winds and heavy rain that paralyzed much of the city. Ferries, buses, and trams were suspended, while the MTR ran on limited service. At Hong Kong International Airport, sustained winds reached 101 kilometers per hour, with gusts up to 151 kph, forcing the cancellation of around 100 flights. One runway was temporarily closed after an HK Express plane skidded onto grass during landing. No injuries were reported.
Despite the disruption, officials said the city escaped serious damage. There were no immediate reports of major flooding or landslides, though more than 160 fallen trees and 12 storm-related injuries were recorded. Courts temporarily suspended sessions, and emergency shelters were opened as a precaution.
Across the border, Tapah made landfall in Taishan, Guangdong Province, around 8:50 a.m. local time. Authorities evacuated about 60,000 people, suspended train and ferry services, and closed tourist sites in preparation for the storm. Minor flooding was also reported in parts of Macao.
While Tapah caused widespread disruption, Hong Kong appeared to avoid the kind of severe destruction seen in past typhoons. Officials continue to monitor conditions as the storm weakens inland.