The Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau (SMG) lowered the no. 8 typhoon signal to a no. 3 signal at 3 pm today, when Typhoon Saola was located some 180 kilometres west-southwest of Macao and moving away from the city.
All storm surge warnings have been cancelled. Nonetheless, the bureau adds that Macao can continue to expect heavy showers and thunderstorms.
Public transport, including buses and special taxis has resumed, as have operations at Hengqin Port. The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge reopens from 3:30 pm with golden bus services from Hong Kong to Macao and vice versa starting at 4:45 pm. The Gongbei Port, Qingmao Port and the Zhuhai-Macao Cross-Border Industrial Zone Checkpoint are already operating.
The Marine and Water Bureau says it is coordinating with ferry operators for the resumption of services between Macao and Hong Kong, which is scheduled for around 5 pm. It says operators will also arrange additional sailings to ease any backlog.
[See more: Macao’s electricity network is being tested for its typhoon preparedness]
All casinos have meanwhile resumed operations.
There were 184 incident reports made to the Civil Protection Operations Centre during the passage of Saola – mostly of fallen trees and objects – as well as 5 injuries. More than 240 people made use of emergency shelters.
According to the Civil Aviation Authority, there have been 264 cancellations, 12 delayed flights and 11 rescheduled flights at Macau International Airport. Passengers are urged to contact the airport hotline (28861111), their respective airlines, or visit the airport website for more details.
The latest typhoon information can be found on the SMG’s website.
