Severe Tropical Storm Tapah triggered the No. 8 typhoon signal for nearly 16 hours, canceling 140 flights and closing schools before the city quickly returned to normal.
Storm Impact
- Typhoon Signal No. 8 was in effect from Sunday evening until Monday afternoon.
- 140 flights canceled, 370 delayed, and school classes suspended.
- Many residents worked from home or were placed on flexible arrangements.
- By 1:10 p.m. Monday, the signal was lowered to No. 3, and later to No. 1 by 7:40 p.m.
HK Express Incident
- Flight UO235 from Beijing Daxing landed in Hong Kong at 10:36 a.m. Monday—four hours behind schedule.
- During taxiing, the aircraft reportedly struck runway signage and was forced to stop.
- 137 passengers and crew safely disembarked.
- The runway was closed temporarily but reopened by 12:15 p.m.
- Civil Aviation Department said it is “deeply concerned” and is investigating.
Damage Report
- 12 people injured.
- 162 reports of fallen trees.
- 3 cases of flooding.
- Less damage than Typhoon Wipha earlier in July.
Public Reaction
- Residents praised the Hong Kong Observatory for its timely warnings.
- Mr. Lee, 50s, jewelry worker: “The earlier announcement gave us more time to plan.”
- Mr. Lai, 50s, technical support worker: “The arrangements were acceptable this time, with more buffer time.”
Airport Operations
- Around 800 flights were expected to be handled Monday.
- 400 flights scheduled from Monday evening to early Tuesday.
- Cathay Pacific canceled a “small number” of flights, notifying affected passengers.
- Airport Authority warned of possible continued disruption due to crosswinds and heavy rain.
Weather Outlook
- Monday night – Tuesday: Squally showers, thunderstorms, and rough seas.
- Thursday – Next Monday: Return of hot and sunny weather, with temperatures between 28–34°C (82–93°F).
📌 Key Takeaways
- Storm Tapah disrupted flights, schools, and work but damage was limited.
- HK Express flight suspected of hitting runway signage; no injuries.
- Hong Kong quickly resumed normal operations by Monday afternoon.
