My first Typhoon experience in Hong Kong-- Utor No 8

I have lived through many a typhoon in Taiwan... today marks the first time for me to witness what a Typhoon in Hong Kong is like.

"The No. 8 Southeast Gale or Storm Signal has been issued at 1:40 a.m. to replace the No. 3 Strong Wind Signal" for the Typhoon Utor that's approaching... around the time when I got done today's translation work.

Apparently, No. 8 and above means everyone has to stay in... thus... however a dedicated tourist in Hong Kong you might be... stay put.

Following is the copy of the warning texts issued by the Hong Kong Observatory at 1:40 Hong Kong Time.
 1. No. 8 Southeast Gale or Storm Signal ( 01:40 HKT - 14.08.2013 )

Warning Information

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No. 8 Southeast Gale or Storm Signal

Tropical Cyclone Bulletin

Here is the latest Tropical Cyclone Bulletin issued by the
Hong Kong Observatory.

The No. 8 Southeast Gale or Storm Signal was issued at 1:40
a.m.

This means that winds with mean speeds of 63 kilometres per
hour or more are expected from the southeast quarter.

At 2 a.m., Severe Typhoon Utor was centred about 310
kilometres south-southwest of Hong Kong (near 19.7 degrees
north 113.1 degrees east) and is forecast to move northwest
at about 16 kilometres per hour across the northern part of
the South China Sea, in the general direction of the western
coast of Guangdong.

As Utor moved closer to Hong Kong, winds over the territory
continued to strengthen and gales already prevailed over
offshore waters and on high ground.  According to the
present forecast track, Utor will skirt over 250 kilometres
to the southwest of Hong Kong this morning.  Local winds are
expected to further strengthen in the morning.  The Gale or
Storm Signal No. 8 will remain in force for most of the
morning.

In the past hour, the maximum sustained winds recorded at
Ngong Ping, Cheung Chau and Chek Lap Kok were 81, 63 and 44
kilometres per hour with maximum gusts 111, 93 and 62
kilometres per hour respectively.

(Precautionary Announcements with No. 8 Signal)

1. Complete all precautions in your home. Lock all windows
and doors, fit bars into position and insert reinforced
shutters and gates if they are available. Adhesive tape
fixed to large window-panes in exposed positions will reduce
damage by broken glass. Storm water drains should be cleared
of leaves and rubbish.

2. Since seas are rough to very rough, you are advised to
stay away from the shoreline and not to engage in water
sports.

3. Do not stand near windows on the exposed side of your
home. Move all furniture and valuables away from these
areas. Make sure you have a safe place to shelter, should
windows be broken.

4. Please listen to radio or watch TV for the latest weather
information broadcast at the 15th, 30th, 45th and 58th
minute of each hour. You can also browse the Hong Kong
Observatory's web site for the information.

Dispatched by Hong Kong Observatory at 01:45 HKT on 14.08.2013