The Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) raised the Strong Wind Signal, No. 3, at 2:40 AM on Sunday, September 7, 2025, as Tropical Storm Tapah continues its approach towards the coast of Guangdong. The city is bracing for strengthening winds and increasingly frequent squally showers, with the HKO actively assessing whether a further upgrade to the Gale or Storm Signal, No. 8, will be necessary on Sunday evening.

As of midnight, Tropical Storm Tapah was located approximately 450 kilometers south-southeast of Hong Kong, moving west-northwest at about 14 km/h. While its circulation is considered relatively small, the storm is expected to intensify and pass about 200 kilometers to the southwest of the city on Monday morning. The public has been warned of rough seas and swelling waves, and advised to stay away from the shoreline and cease all water activities. A storm surge is also anticipated, which may cause flooding in low-lying coastal areas on Monday morning.

The storm's approach serves as a critical test for Hong Kong's new financial market policies. For businesses across the region, particularly in logistics and finance, the coming hours are crucial for activating contingency plans and monitoring the storm's trajectory. The government has urged citizens to take necessary precautions and stay updated on the latest weather bulletins.

Impact Analysis

The primary impact of Tropical Storm Tapah extends beyond immediate weather concerns, affecting key sectors of Hong Kong's economy. The logistics and supply chain sector faces significant disruption, with ports in Hong Kong and Shenzhen likely to suspend container operations, leading to potential delays of 2-3 days. Air travel is also affected, with airlines like Cathay Pacific expected to adjust flight schedules. For the financial sector, this storm is the first major test of the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing (HKEX) new policy, effective September 23, 2024, which allows trading to continue during severe weather, including Signal No. 8. This policy shift means brokers, banks, and investors must ensure robust remote work capabilities to manage market volatility in real-time.

Timeline

September 5, 10:20 PM: The Hong Kong Observatory issues the Standby Signal, No. 1, as a tropical depression forms within 800km of the city.
September 6, throughout the day: The system is named Tropical Storm Tapah and intensifies, moving steadily closer to the Guangdong coast. HKO revises its forecast, indicating a Signal No. 3 would be issued in the early hours of Sunday.
September 7, 2:40 AM: The HKO raises the Strong Wind Signal, No. 3, as strong wind zones are expected to affect the Pearl River Delta.
What's next: The HKO will monitor Tapah's intensification and proximity to Hong Kong to determine if a Signal No. 8 is required on Sunday evening. The storm is expected to make its closest approach on Monday morning.