Impact of Tropical Storm Tapah on Hong Kong and Macau

On September 8, 2025, Hong Kong experienced significant disruptions due to Severe Tropical Storm Tapah, which came within 170 kilometers of the territory. The Hong Kong Observatory issued the Typhoon Signal No. 8 at 9:20 PM on September 7, indicating the presence of gale-force winds and heavy rain. As a result, all day schools, including primary, secondary, and special education institutions, were closed for the day, as announced by the Education Bureau. Public transport services, including ferries, buses, and trams, were suspended or adjusted, with the mass-transit railway operating at longer intervals.

ReutersThe WatchersTyphoon Tapah lashes HKTyphoon Tapah: Hong Kong Schools Closed Monday, September 8Typhoon Signal No. 8 expected tonight as Tapah intensifiesHong Kong Free PressHong Kong Free Press

The storm also led to the cancellation of numerous flights between Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Macau. China Airlines and Starlux Airlines reported multiple flight cancellations due to the storm's impact. In Hong Kong, the Airport Authority noted that 53 departing and 47 arriving flights were canceled, affecting approximately 2,000 passengers. In Macau, the Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau issued a similar No. 8 signal, resulting in the suspension of public transport and the closure of schools.

Macau enters prevention stage; flights and ferries suspended as T8 hitsThe WatchersGov’t lifts immediate prevention status as typhoon weakensA typhoon signal no. 8 will be raised in Macao tonightSignal No. 8 to remain hoisted until at least 10 a.m.Typhoon signal to lower as Tapah moves awayHong Kong Free Press

Despite the severe weather conditions, reports indicated minimal damage in Hong Kong. Streets remained calm, with no significant flooding or landslides reported as of Monday morning. The Hong Kong Observatory recorded sustained winds of 101 kph (63 mph) near the international airport, with maximum gusts reaching 151 kph. In Macau, while the storm caused disruptions, the authorities reported that the immediate prevention stage was lifted as Tapah began to weaken and move away from the region.

ReutersHong Kong Free PressTyphoon Signal No. 8 expected tonight as Tapah intensifiesSignal No. 8 to remain hoisted until at least 10 a.m.Typhoon Tapah lashes HKTyphoon signal to lower as Tapah moves awayT8 typhoon signal for Tropical Cyclone Tapah to remain in force until 1pm

The Hong Kong Observatory advised residents to secure their homes and stay updated through official channels. The Education Bureau emphasized the importance of safety, stating, "Classes of all day schools are suspended for the day." In Macau, the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau coordinated with casino operators to ensure safety measures were in place for employees and guests during the storm.

Typhoon Tapah disrupts Macau with flight cancellations and transport

While the response to the storm was generally viewed as appropriate, some residents expressed frustration over the timing of the school closures and transport suspensions. Critics argued that earlier warnings could have mitigated disruptions to daily life and travel plans.

Signal No. 8 to remain hoisted until at least 10 a.m.

As Tropical Storm Tapah moves away from Hong Kong and Macau, the Hong Kong Observatory has downgraded the typhoon signal to No. 3, indicating a gradual return to normalcy. However, authorities continue to monitor the situation, advising residents to remain cautious of potential flooding in low-lying areas due to residual storm surges.

Typhoon Signal No. 8 expected tonight as Tapah intensifies

• “Tapah is moving into inland Guangdong and will depart from Hong Kong progressively.” — Hong Kong Observatory

Hong Kong Free Press

This event highlights the ongoing challenges posed by tropical storms in the region, particularly during the typhoon season, which is expected to continue through October.

A typhoon signal no. 8 will be raised in Macao tonight