Typhoon Ragasa FAQ: What You Need to Know

How does Hong Kong’s typhoon warning system work?

The Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) issues numbered signals to let the public know the severity of tropical cyclone conditions:

• Signal No. 1 – Standby: A storm is within 800 km of Hong Kong. Weather is generally fine but may deteriorate.

• Signal No. 3 – Strong Wind: Sustained strong winds (41–62 km/h) expected. Outdoor activities begin to shut down, and schools for younger children are suspended.

• Signal No. 8 – Gale or Storm: Gale to storm-force winds (63–117 km/h) likely. This is the key signal. Schools, offices, and most businesses close. Public transport reduces drastically. Residents are expected to remain indoors.

• Signal No. 9 – Increasing Gale: Winds are strengthening and conditions worsening.

• Signal No. 10 – Hurricane: The most severe. Hurricane-force winds (≥118 km/h) are affecting Hong Kong. Outdoor movement is extremely dangerous.

What happens with work?

• When Signal No. 8 or above is issued, employees are not expected to report to work unless they are designated as “essential staff” (for example, in emergency services, utilities, hospitals, transport operations).

• Many offices close immediately, and remote work is common if conditions permit.

• If the signal is issued while you are already at work, employers usually allow staff to leave early to return home before conditions worsen.

• Domestic helpers, contractors, and part-time workers should clarify arrangements with employers ahead of time.

What about schools?

• When Signal No. 3 is in effect, kindergartens and special schools are suspended.

• When Signal No. 8 or above is issued, all schools at every level are closed.

• Parents are notified through the Education Bureau’s announcements, local news, and school apps.

How is local transportation affected?

• MTR (subway): Continues running during lower signals, but trains may run less frequently once Signal No. 8 is issued. If winds are severe, above-ground lines may be suspended.

• Buses: Services are gradually reduced once Signal No. 8 is hoisted and stop entirely during the peak of the storm.

• Trams (“ding dings”): Stop service when Signal No. 8 is raised.

• Ferries: Among the first services suspended, as rough seas make sailing unsafe.

• Taxis: Some continue until conditions worsen, but many drivers go off duty when winds become too strong.

What about flights?

• Airlines begin cancelling flights in advance of Signal No. 8. Hundreds of flights are usually affected.

• Once Signal No. 8 or higher is in force, airport operations scale down drastically, and the Airport Authority may temporarily shut runways.

• If you are flying in or out, check with your airline before travelling to the airport. Do not assume you can wait there during the storm—services and food outlets may also be closed.

Will shops and restaurants still open?

• Under Signal No. 1 or No. 3, most shops, malls, and restaurants remain open, though many close earlier.

• Once Signal No. 8 is issued, nearly all businesses close. Supermarkets, convenience stores, and restaurants shut their doors to allow staff to go home.

• Pharmacies and bakeries often see long queues just before Signal No. 8, as residents stock up.

• Only essential services such as hospitals and some petrol stations remain open during the peak of the storm.

What should expats and visitors do if they’ve never experienced a typhoon before?

• Stay indoors when Signal No. 8 or above is issued. Do not go sightseeing—conditions are genuinely dangerous.

• Avoid seafront areas and hiking trails, as storm surge and landslides are common hazards.

• Stock up on food, bottled water, cash, and charging devices before Signal No. 8.

• If staying in a serviced apartment or hotel, follow staff instructions—they are familiar with typhoon protocols.

• If you have medical conditions, ensure you have sufficient medicine for at least 3–4 days.

When is it safe to go outside again?

• Wait until the HKO officially lowers the typhoon signal. Even if winds seem calm, “subsiding” can be deceptive, and sudden squalls may return.

• After the storm, beware of hazards such as fallen trees, broken glass, live wires, and floodwaters.

In summary:

• Signal No. 8 is the critical trigger: businesses, schools, and transport largely shut down.

• Stock up early, plan to stay indoors, and monitor HKO bulletins.

• Visitors and newcomers should treat all warnings seriously—Hong Kong has learned from past storms that preparation saves lives.