A no. 3 tropical cyclone signal is now in force in Macao. The signal was raised from no. 1 to no. 3 at 4 pm today by the Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau (frequently referred to by its Portuguese initials SMG).
The stronger signal was issued after Tropical Storm Maliksi, which was 230 kilometres southwest of Macao at 2 pm today, began moving closer to the west Guangdong coast. At 4 pm, it was 220 km southwest of the city.
According to the SMG, the storm will make landfall in the vicinity of the Pearl River Delta sometime tonight or the early hours of Saturday. Winds will strengthen and rainbands will bring heavy showers and thunderstorms to the city. Flooding in low-lying areas is possible, although storm surges are unlikely.
[See more: Storm warning signals are being issued with greater frequency in Macao]
Under a no. 3 signal, winds with sustained speed of 41 to 62 kmh are expected in Macao, with gusts potentially exceeding 110 kmh. Wind shear may be felt on the city’s bridges and motorists should proceed with caution. Motorcyclists are asked to use the motorcycle lane on the Ponte de Sai Van (San Van Bridge) when travelling between the peninsula and Taipa.
The public should pay close attention to weather reports from the SMG and restrict outdoor activities. The stability of doors, windows and items on balconies should be checked and drains cleared. Owners of vessels must ensure the safety of their moorings and those at sea should return to safe anchorage.
With climate change resulting in more frequent severe weather, around five to eight typhoons are expected in the Pearl River Delta this year – an abnormally high number, according to meteorologists.
