HKO gauging need to issue Standby Signal No. 1 over the weekend

The Observatory stated that a low-pressure area over the northern part of the South China Sea might shift eastward after crossing Hainan Island -- an assessment on the potential issuance of the Standby Signal No. 1 will be made over the weekend.

Influenced by the combined effects of the low-pressure area and a ridge of high pressure, winds along the coast of Guangdong are strong and accompanied by showers. Strong winds are affecting many parts of Hong Kong this evening.

The Observatory notes that the low-pressure area has a loose structure and has not yet developed into a tropical cyclone. Current forecasts indicate it will move away from Hong Kong and cross Hainan Island on Thursday, but its subsequent path remains uncertain -- it could shift eastward and approach the Guangdong coast.

Unsettled weather is expected from the weekend through early next week, with increasing showers and squally thunderstorms.