Fengshen

From our friends at the Hong Kong Observatory:

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Tropical Cyclone Bulletin

Here is the latest Tropical Cyclone Bulletin issued by the Hong Kong Observatory.

The Strong Wind Signal, No. 3 was issued at 4:40 p.m.

This means that winds with mean speeds of 41 to 62 kilometres per hour are expected.

At 5 p.m., Severe Tropical Storm Fengshen was estimated to be about 200 kilometres south-southeast of Hong Kong (near 20.8 degrees north 115.2 degrees east) and is forecast to move north or north-northwest at about 16 kilometres per hour in the general direction of the Pearl River Estuary.

Fengshen continues to edge closer to Hong Kong. Local winds are expected to strengthen gradually and seas will be rough.

According to the present forecast track, Fengshen will be rather close to Hong Kong in the early morning tomorrow. The possibility of issuing Gale or Storm Wind Signal No.8 cannot be ruled out.

(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. Engineers, architects and contractors are again reminded that all scaffoldings, hoardings and temporary buildings should be secured.

4. 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.

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So, the severe tropical storm (a lesser type Typhoon) Fengshen is coming our way, and will pass us very, very close. It is highly likely that we'll get the Typhoon Signal 8 which is the highest in its scale - meaning that everyone should stay indoors and pray for the best.

Well, I called my girlfriend to let her know of the development (not long ago it seemed that Fengshen would pass us by safe distance) and that we might get Signal 8 this time - and her comment was "Oh, nice."

However, her main concern was that Fengshen would probably pass us by so quickly that it doesn't get to affect our work-life. It will be closest-by around 2-3am, so by 9am it might be far away enough to drop the warning signal back to 3, which means we have to go to work.

So, whereas everyone else in Asia is afraid of Typhoons for the devastation they bring, people in Hong Kong are afraid typhoons pass too fast - and they can't stay home for a few extra hours, or a day.

Such is life.