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Weather: Hong Kong issues alert vs 'Sarika'


As tropical storm "Dodong" (international name Sarika) left Philippine territory and headed for China before noon Friday, Hong Kong authorities issued a standby signal for the approaching cyclone. The Hong Kong Observatory issued a "number one standby signal" as "Sarika" neared China, although it said it does not expect to issue a Strong Wind Signal within the day. "The Standby Signal, No. 1, is in force. This means that a tropical cyclone now (centered) within about 800 (kilometers) of Hong Kong may affect us," it said. According to the latest forecast track, "Sarika will maintain some distance from Hong Kong today and local winds are not expected to strengthen significantly. The chance of issuing Strong Wind Signal No. 3 today is not high," it added. With the No. 1 Signal, the Hong Kong Observatory issued six precautionary announcements: 1. Some precautions against damage should be taken now, gutters and drains should be cleared of obstructions. Hinges, bolts, locks and shutters of windows and doors should be checked. 2. If you are planning to visit Guangdong, Macau, any of the off-shore islands or remote parts of Hong Kong, you are reminded that changes in weather may affect your plans. 3. Since there will be swells, you are advised to stay away from the shoreline and not to engage in water sports. 4. All small vessels including low power vessels and fishing vessels in open sea should seek shelter as soon as possible. Please take any precautions necessary for small vessels and secure them properly with moorings. 5. Owners of shop signs, advertisements and TV aerials which overhang public thoroughfares or which are situated on tops of buildings should make sure that the fastenings and framework of these structures are secured. 6. Listen to radio, watch TV or browse the Hong Kong Observatory's web site for information on the tropical cyclone. Hong Kong is one of the popular destinations of tourists from the Philippines as well as overseas Filipino workers. "Dodong" had exited Philippine territory before noon Friday, with the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration predicting mostly good weather on Sunday, Independence Day. However, PAGASA said "Dodong" is still expected to enhance the Southwest monsoon and will bring rains over the western section of Northern and Central Luzon. - VVP/YA, GMA News

Tags: hongkong, dodong
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