Wind and rain warnings have been issued for Hong Kong and Macau as Super Typhoon Ragasa approaches the region. The Hong Kong Observatory and Macau Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau raised the Standby Signal T1 at 12:20pm on September 22, with forecasts of strong winds, rough seas, and high waves. The public has been advised to avoid coastal areas and water activities.
Authorities will assess whether to increase the warning level to Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal T3 later in the evening, with further consideration for higher alerts (T8, T9, or T10) on Tuesday and Wednesday. Flight suspensions are possible as the Hong Kong Airport Authority is considering halting flights for 36 hours starting Tuesday evening.
“If the Typhoon Signal 8 or above is in effect at 7:00 a.m., the U.S. Consulate General in Hong Kong and Macau will cancel all visa, passport, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, and notarial appointments scheduled for that day. Please visit the Consular Services During the Rainy and Typhoon Season for information about your visa or American Citizen Services appointment,” according to an official statement from the consulate.
Travelers are encouraged to monitor local media outlets as well as official channels like the Hong Kong Observatory and Macao Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau websites for updates on storm conditions. People are also urged to delay travel until after the typhoon passes and to seek secure shelter if needed.
For assistance, individuals can contact:
U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong and Macau at +852 2841-2211 or +852 2523-9011 (after hours), or email ACSHK@state.gov.
The U.S. State Department – Consular Affairs can be reached at 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444.
Further travel information is available through official resources for Hong Kong and Macau. Updates may also be found via social media channels including Facebook and Twitter.