Typhoon KHANUN to Bring Heavy Rains to Shenzhen this Weekend


ShekouDaily   |   October 14, 2017

UPDATE: October 16, 2017: The Shenzhen Meteorological Bureau and the Hong Kong Observatory have cancalled their Typhoon Warnings.

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UPDATE: The HKO issued the No. 1 Standby Signal at 10:40 p.m. October 15 to replace the No. 3 Strong Wind Signal. Additionally, the SZMB’s rainstorm warning is also no longer in effect.

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UPDATE: At 10pm, the Hong Kong Observatory estimated Typhoon Khanun to be about 310 kilometres west-southwest of Hong Kong, with maximum sustained winds near its center of 140 km/h. It is forecast to move west at about 20 km/h across the northern part of the South China Sea towards the vicinity of Leizhou Peninsula.

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UPDATE: At 9:10pm, the Shenzhen Meteorological Bureau issued a Yellow Rainstorm Warning for Yantian District, Pingshan District, Dapeng New District, the Eastern Sea Area, Pingdi、Baolon, Longgang, Longcheng and Yuanshan advisinng of probable or ongoing effects of rainstorm in the next 3 hours with  precipitation greater 50mm.

We will continue to monitor the situation and update this post as new information becomes available. 

Track the storm in real-time: 

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UPDATE: At 8pm October 15, the Shenzhen Meteorological Bureau downgraded their Typhoon warning from Yellow to Blue.  

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UPDATE: The HKO issued the Strong Wind Signal No. 3 at 7:20pm.

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UPDATE: At 3 pm October 15, The HKO announced that now Severe Typhoon Khanun (with maximum sustained winds of 155 km/h) is now closest to the territory, skirting around 200 kilometres southwest of Hong Kong. With Khanun tracking westwards, local winds will change to easterlies and gale force winds will last for some time. When Khanun moves further away and local winds weaken later, the Observatory will consider issuing the Strong Wind Signal, No. 3.

Tides are currently running more than 0.5 metres above normal. A high tide will occur tonight and cause flooding in some low-lying areas.

In the past hour, the maximum sustained winds recorded at Sha Chau, Cheung Chau and Tai Mei Tuk were 85, 73 and 69 kilometres per hour with maximum gusts 100, 95 and 94 kilometres per hour respectively.

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UPDATE: At noon October 15th, the HKO published that “according to the present forecast track, Khanun is expected to pass about 200 kilometres southwest of Hong Kong in the next few hours. The Gale or Storm Signal No. 8 is expected to remain in force for most of the afternoon.

Northerlies are now affecting Hong Kong and will gradually change to east to northeasterlies. Areas which were previously sheltered may become exposed. Members of the public should stay on the alert.

Tides are currently running more than 0.5 metres above normal. A high tide will occur tonight and cause flooding in some low-lying areas.

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Flight delays are currently being reported. Click here for real-time flight info at Hong Kong International Airport or click here for flight queries from Shenzhen Airport.

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UPDATE: Shenzhen China Merchants Shekou International Cruise Terminal Co. Ltd. has announced that all ferry service to and from Shekou have been cancelled for today Sunday October 15, 2017. The cancellation is due to the arrival of the Typhoon. Click here for updates regarding ferry service

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UPDATE: at 8:40am October 15, the Hong Kong Observatory issued the No. 8 Northeast Gale or Storm Signal. This means that winds with mean speeds of 63 kilometres per hour or more are expected from the northeast quarter. 

At 9 a.m., Typhoon Khanun was centred about 260 kilometres south-southeast of Hong Kong and is forecast to move west-northwest at about 25 kilometres per hour across the northern part of the South China Sea in the general direction of Leizhou Peninsula to Hainan Island.

Local winds were strengthening with gales over offshore waters and occasional storm force winds on parts of high ground. Khanun is forecast to pass about 200 kilometres southwest of Hong Kong in the afternoon. The Gale or Storm Signal No. 8 is expected to remain in force for most of the time during the day.

A high tide will occur tonight and cause flooding in some low-lying areas. Outer rainbands of Khanun are bringing occasional heavy showers and squalls to Hong Kong. Seas will also be very rough with swells. Members of the public are advised to stay away from the shoreline and not to engage in water sports.

Precautionary Announcements with No. 8 Signal

1. Complete all precautions in your home. Lock all windows and doors, fit bars into position and insert reinforced shutters and gates if they are available. Adhesive tape fixed to large window-panes in exposed positions will reduce damage by broken glass. Storm water drains should be cleared of leaves and rubbish.

2. Do not stand near windows on the exposed side of your home. Move all furniture and valuables away from these areas. Make sure you have a safe place to shelter, should windows be broken.

3. Owners of neon signs are reminded that they should now arrange for the electricity supply to their signs to be cut off.

4. Please listen to radio or watch TV for the latest weather information broadcast. You can also browse the Hong Kong Observatory’s web site for the information.

UPDATE: at 5am October 15th, the Shenzhen Meteorological Bureau upgraded its Typhoon Alert from Blue to Yellow for the land area of Shenzhen, the Western Sea Area and the Eastern Sea Area cautioning of “Probable or ongoing effects of tropical cyclone or fresh gale in the next 24H.”

The following “guidance for preparedness” were issued:

1. Local residents should tune in to the radio or TV for the latest typhoon news.
2. Suspend school/nursery/kindergarten classes. If not ready for school, children may stay at home, and if on the way to/from school, they should be led to the closest shelters. Schools are tasked with ensuring the safety of all children.
3. Suspend operations for sake of employees’ safety (except essential services: emergency rescue, medical, public transport/utilities), and shelter stranded employees.
4. Close exhibitions, markets and coastal parks, and halt outdoor/stadium sporting activities
make appropriate arrangements for the evacuation and shelter the remaining essential or stranded workers.
5. Outdoor workers who are monitoring typhoon/traffic info should avoid trees/billboards/power equipment, never touch fallen power lines, and stay indoors when possible. If necessary, call Civil Affairs Hotline 12349 for help or seek shelter nearby.
6. Promptly take indoor protective measures: strengthen doors and windows, tape windowpanes, and avoid windows from shattering glass. Remove or secure outdoor items to prevent injury.
7. Those in at-risk areas such as seaside, dilapidated buildings, and simple work sheds should seek shelter immediately.
8. Those doing outdoor work in the upper-air or at sea should cease working.
9. All ferries/vessels should stop sailing, take shelter, anchor, and keep close watch. If in distress at sea, call Shenzhen Marine Search and Rescue Center for help, Tel: 12395.
10. Consult airports, seaports, bus terminals and border checkpoints before going there.

< Caught in the rain without an umbrella? Here’s how to find one nearby to rent one for just ¥1 for every 12 hours. >

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UPDATE: At 7:10pm October 14, the Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) issued the Strong Wind Signal, No. 3. This means that winds with mean speeds of 41 to 62 kilometres per hour are expected.

At 7 p.m., Severe Tropical Storm Khanun was estimated to be about 570 kilometres southeast of Hong Kong and is forecast to move northwest at about 20 kilometres per hour across the northern part of the South China Sea and intensify. It will move in the general direction of Leizhou Peninsula to Hainan Island.

Khanun is moving northwest closer to the south China coast, and together with the effect of the northeast monsoon, local winds are strengthening gradually. Winds are strong offshore, occasionally reaching gale force on high ground. The Strong Wind Signal, No. 3 is expected to remain in force for tonight and the small hours of tomorrow.

The HKO forecasts that Khanun will reach Typhoon strength around 5pm Sunday with maximum sustained winds at its center of 140 km/h.

Precautionary Announcements with No. 3 Signal

1. You are advised not to delay in taking all precautions to protect your home or property. Make sure now that all loose objects are secure. Porch furniture, flower pots and other objects likely to be blown away should be taken indoors. Check again and make sure all windows and doors can be securely locked.

2. Storm water drains should be cleared of leaves and rubbish, this applies particularly to dwellers in low-lying areas.

3. Fishing vessels not yet in typhoon shelters should seek shelter without delay. Check again that all deck fittings are firmly fastened. If available, heavy anchors should be prepared and used in addition to regular anchors.

4. Since seas are rough and there are swells, you are advised to stay away from the shoreline and not to engage in water sports.

5. People should avoid walking or working in areas exposed to gales and squalls. Drivers using highways and flyovers should be alert to violent gusts.

6. Listen to radio, watch TV or browse the Hong Kong Observatory’s web site for information on the tropical cyclone.

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UPDATE: at 5:45pm October 14th, the HKO announced it will consider issuing the Strong Wind Signal No. 3 in the next couple of hours.

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UPDATE: at 5pm October 14th, the Shenzhen Meteorological Bureau upgraded its Typhoon Alert from White to Blue for the land area of Shenzhen, the Western Sea Area and the Eastern Sea Area cautioning of “Probable or ongoing effects of tropical cyclone or strong breeze in the next 24H.”

The following “guidance for preparedness” were issued:

1. Local residents should tune in to the radio or TV for the latest typhoon news.
2. Take protective measures, secure windows, doors, hoarding sheets, scaffoldings and temporary structures, and remove/secure outdoor items.
3. Those in seaside locations and in at-risk buildings should be prepared for evacuation.
4. Those working in outdoor, aerial, harbor, and offshore sites should be prepared against strong winds, ensure safety and suspend operations if needed.
5. Fishing vessels/aqua-farmers should land at once according to the notice of the fishery administration
sailors/offshore workers should enter anchorage or typhoon shelters on maritime authority’s notice. If in distress at sea, call 12395 for help.

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Originally Published Article:
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At 10:00 a.m. on October 13, National Meteorological Center issued a yellow category typhoon warning as typhoon Khanun is expected to make landfall over the coastal areas ranging from Sanya, Hainan province to Zhanjiang, Guangdong province on Sunday evening or Monday morning. Although not expected to make landfall near Shenzhen, local agencies are forecasting rain and heavy winds. 

At 4pm Friday October 13th, the Shenzhen Meteorological Bureau issued their White Typhoon warning stating that the entire city may be affected within 48 hours. At 10:40am Saturday October 14th, the Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) issued their Standby Signal, No. 1. At 11 a.m., Severe Tropical Storm Khanun was estimated to be about 700 kilometers southeast of Hong Kong and is forecast to move northwest at about 15 km/h across the South China Sea and intensify. It will move in the general direction of Hainan Island to Leizhou Peninsula. The HKO issued the following statement at that time”

“Khanun was relatively slow moving this morning but there is indication that it will take on a more northwesterly track. Under the combined effect of Khanun and the northeast monsoon, winds over Hong Kong will be occasionally strong offshore and on high ground during the day. With Khanun moving closer, local winds will start to strengthen tonight. The Observatory will consider issuing the Strong Wind Signal, No.3 later today, taking into consideration the movement and development of Khanun.”

Weather Underground’s forecast as of 8am this morning is also projecting a similar trajectory

The HKO announced at 11am that Khanun is expected to edge closer to the south China coast tomorrow; at which point it is expected to reach Typhoon classification with maximum sustained wind speeds at its center of 120 km/h. Local weather is expected to deteriorate significantly. Members of the public should take precautionary measures against high winds and flooding as soon as possible.

Precautionary Announcements with No. 1 Signal

1. Some precautions against damage should be taken now, gutters and drains should be cleared of obstructions. Hinges, bolts, locks and shutters of windows and doors should be checked.

2. People living in wooden huts and in low-lying areas should take necessary precautions against strong winds and flooding.

3. If you are planning to visit Guangdong, Macau, any of the off-shore islands or remote parts of Hong Kong, you are reminded that changes in weather may affect your plans.

4. Since there may be swells, you are advised to stay away from the shoreline and not to engage in water sports.

5. Engineers, architects and contractors should make sure that scaffoldings, hoardings and other temporary structures are secured.

6. Those who have definite duties during a tropical cyclone should now remain on call or contact their control centres from time to time.

7. Listen to radio, watch TV or browse the Hong Kong Observatory’s web site for information on the tropical cyclone.

The HKO also issued their Yellow Fire Danger Warning at 6am today, stating that the fire risk is High.