Down Under Turmoil: Flights Grounded, Businesses Shuttered in Hong Kong and Guangdong as Chaos Ensues

Asia Pacific Flights Cancelled, Businesses Shut in Hong Kong, Guangdong as Typhoon Saola Nears

Introduction

On September 1, 2023, Hong Kong and Guangdong province in China experienced widespread cancellations of flights and closures of businesses and schools due to the approaching Typhoon Saola. As one of the most powerful typhoons to hit the region since 1949, authorities in both Hong Kong and China took precautionary measures to ensure the safety of their residents.

Cancellation of Flights and Disruption of Travel Plans

Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong’s flagship carrier, announced the cancellation of all flights between 2 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. on Saturday due to the approaching typhoon. This decision affected more than 100 people who had planned to fly on Friday afternoon, leaving them disappointed and stranded at the airport. One traveler, Ledenila Barizo, who was supposed to attend her daughter’s oath-taking ceremony in the Philippines, expressed her sadness and frustration at the cancellation of her flight.

Potential Impact and Safety Precautions

Weather authorities in Hong Kong warned that the typhoon would bring rapid deterioration in weather conditions, including storm surges higher than the normal tide. The maximum water levels could reach a record, increasing the risk of flooding and damage. As a result, schools in Hong Kong were closed, and residents were advised to take necessary safety precautions to avoid casualties.

Impact on China’s Guangdong Province

Chinese authorities also took significant measures in Guangdong province, which was expected to be directly affected by Typhoon Saola. Train services in the province were suspended, schools were closed, and cities like Shenzhen, with a population of over 17 million, shut down businesses, work, and financial markets. The authorities in Guangdong were particularly concerned about the destructive winds that could cause extensive damage.

Preparations in Macau, Taiwan, and Zhuhai

Macau, known for its bustling casinos, prepared for the typhoon by raising its wind warning level to the second highest on Friday and the highest on Saturday. Taiwan, which was also expecting another tropical cyclone named Haikui, had its weather officials warn of its potential impact on the east coast of the country before heading towards China’s Fujian province. In the nearby city of Zhuhai, hundreds of flights were cancelled, and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau bridge was closed for safety reasons.

Lessons from Past Typhoons

One expert pointed out that the impact and destruction caused by typhoons depend on how long they linger over land. For example, Tropical Storm Rumbia in 2018, despite its moderate intensity, caused significant damage due to its unusually long lifespan. The example shows the need for constant monitoring and preparedness, even for typhoons that may not initially seem too severe.

Conclusion

Typhoon Saola’s imminent arrival in Hong Kong and Guangdong province has led to the cancellation of flights, closure of businesses and schools, and implementation of safety precautions. This serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of typhoons and the importance of taking early action to mitigate potential risks. Authorities in the affected regions have demonstrated their commitment to the safety of their residents, and it is crucial for individuals to follow guidelines and stay informed to ensure their own well-being during such weather events.

Sources:

• Farah Master – Senior Correspondent at Reuters
• Joyce Zhou – Visual Journalist at Reuters