Macao’s Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau (SMG) hoisted the no. 8 typhoon signal at 4:30 pm as the territory began to feel the impact of Severe Typhoon Koinu’s gale force winds.
At 4 pm, the storm was located 90 kilometres southeast of Macao.
A blue storm surge warning is also in force, with the SMG forecasting flooding of up to 50 centimetres in low-lying areas from midnight to Monday morning. Motorists worried about the safety of their vehicles during floods can park them without charge at the West Car Park of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge checkpoint.
Ferry services and public transport have been suspended, along with the operation of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, and non-essential medical services.
[See more: Global climate change is behind the rise in severe typhoons]
The authorities have opened four emergency shelters at Ilha Verde Refuge Centre; the Workers Stadium; the Taipa branch of the Taipa and Coloane Social Service Centre; and the Academy of the Public Security Forces.
At Macau International Airport, 77 flights have been cancelled, 8 delayed and 2 rescheduled. Passengers are urged to call the airport hotline on 2886 1111, or their respective airlines, prior to heading to the airport.
Real time flight information can also be viewed at macau-airport.com.
Visitors with queries about the typhoon can call the Macao Government Tourism Office’s 24-hour hotline at 2833 3000.
