Hong Kong may raise typhoon alert as Tropical Cyclone Saudel shifts westward toward Pearl River Delta

The Hong Kong Observatory may issue a higher typhoon signal near the weekend as Tropical Cyclone Saudel is expected to linger over the northeastern South China Sea before potentially turning westward toward the Pearl River Delta, reversing its earlier trajectory in an unusual weather pattern.

The standby No 1 typhoon signal will remain in force throughout Wednesday as Saudel crosses the northeastern South China Sea, the Observatory said. Local winds are occasionally strong offshore and on high ground due to the combined effect of Saudel and the northeast monsoon.

Uncertain path raises alert possibility

Saudel is forecast to linger over the northeastern South China Sea on Wednesday night and Thursday, after which it could change course in the following days. The storm will then have a higher chance of turning westward, skirting the coast of eastern Guangdong and edging closer to the vicinity of the Pearl River Delta again around Friday to Saturday, according to the Observatory.

The forecaster warned of "rather large uncertainties" in the cyclone's intensity by then. It said it will closely monitor Saudel's movement and assess the need to issue the Strong Wind Signal No 3 when the tropical cyclone edges closer to the Pearl River Delta.

Weather outlook

Hong Kong is expected to be mainly cloudy with a few squally showers on Wednesday, with maximum temperatures hitting about 30 degrees Celsius (86 Fahrenheit).

The tropical cyclone's rare resurgence and potential course reversal bring uncertainty to the forecast, complicating preparations for residents and authorities in the region.

Source: South China Morning Post