Hong Kong hoists typhoon signal Number 8

The Hong Kong Observatory issued the Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8 on Thursday afternoon, replacing the lower signal No. 3 as Typhoon Linfa moved closer.

This is the first typhoon signal No. 8 hoisted this year in Hong Kong, which was issued at 4:40 p.m. (Hong Kong time).

Linfa intensified into a typhoon on Thursday around 9 a.m., when the observatory hoisted the No. 3 signal.

The observatory said showers will become more frequent tonight and there will be swells. Heavy squally showers are expected on Friday.

The Mass Transit Railway has increased its rail and bus service frequencies to meet passenger demand.

The Airport Authority told the media that there may be delays or cancellation to the 520 flights flying in and out of Hong Kong on Thursday and Friday morning.

Public services are suspended under the attack of Linfa. The Social Welfare Department said all child care centers, elderly services centers and day rehabilitation units, including sheltered workshops and day activity centers are closed.

The evening general outpatient clinics of public medical institutions will be closed on Thursday night, while Accident and Emergency services at public hospitals will remain normal, the Hospital Authority said.

The Education Bureau announced earlier that classes of all schools are suspended on Thursday, and reminded schools to implement contingency measures to ensure the safety of students. Endi