Hong Kong Unlikely to Issue Typhoon Warning as Flights to Japan Cancelled

Typhoon Signal Unlikely for Hong Kong, but 18 Japan Flights Cancelled

Hong Kong is unlikely to issue a typhoon warning signal this weekend as Tropical Cyclone Kujira is expected to weaken under the influence of Severe Typhoon Dolphin, according to the Hong Kong Observatory. However, at least 18 flights between Hong Kong and Japan have been cancelled due to Dolphin’s impact.

Kujira to Weaken, No Direct Threat to Hong Kong

The Observatory confirmed that Kujira, currently lingering over the central South China Sea near Luzon in the Philippines, will remain at least 700km away from Hong Kong. This distance significantly reduces the cyclone’s threat to the city. “Unless Kujira adopts a track closer to the coast of Guangdong, the chance of issuing the typhoon standby signal, No. 1, is rather low,” the forecaster stated.

Kujira’s weakening is attributed to the countervailing influence of Severe Typhoon Dolphin, which is moving westward towards Okinawa and the East China Sea. Dolphin, recently downgraded from a super typhoon, is expected to continue drawing Kujira eastward, further reducing its intensity.

Flight Cancellations and Local Weather Outlook

Despite the low threat to Hong Kong, Dolphin’s impact has already disrupted travel plans. Airlines have cancelled at least 18 flights between Hong Kong and Japan as a precautionary measure.

Meanwhile, Hong Kong residents can expect a break from the gloomy and wet weather that marked July. The Observatory predicts mostly fine and hot conditions over the weekend, though high inland temperatures could trigger thundery showers. “It will be extremely hot over inland areas,” the Observatory warned.

This development underscores the complex interplay of tropical systems in the region and their varying impacts on different areas. While Hong Kong is spared significant disruption, travellers to Japan face cancellations, highlighting the far-reaching effects of severe weather systems.

Source: South China Morning Post