Saudel hovers in South China Sea bringing wind and rain to HK

The Standby Signal No. 1 is in effect and will remain so at least until 6:00 PM. The Observatory will assess later whether it is necessary to issue the Strong Wind Signal No. 3.

Affected by the outer rainbands of Tropical Depression Saudel, squally showers and thunderstorms were brought to the first day of school.

Before noon, around 10 mm of rainfall was recorded in many parts of the territory. The rain was heavier in the eastern New Territories, exceeding 20 mm accompanied by strong gusts.

Saudel is currently traversing the northern part of the South China Sea and is expected to pass over 200 km southeast of Hong Kong later this afternoon.

Under the combined effect of Saudel and the northeast monsoon, northerly winds are generally prevailing over Hong Kong. Due to terrain sheltering, the chance of strong winds generally blowing across Hong Kong during the daytime today is not high.

Subsequently, from tonight to tomorrow, Saudel will gradually intensify and approach the coast of eastern Guangdong, causing wind speeds in Hong Kong to step up progressively.

Depending on Saudel's intensity, the distance of its associated strong wind area from the Pearl River Estuary, and changes in local wind speeds, the Observatory will assess whether it is necessary to issue the Strong Wind Signal No. 3 at that time.