Four Cyclones Spotted as Saudel Approaches Hong Kong; Opening Day Rain Expected
HK01 · 1 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago2 MIN
Summary
The Hong Kong Observatory is tracking an unusual weather event as four tropical cyclones currently span from the South China Sea to the Western Pacific. Super Typhoon Saudel is forecast to move inland into northern Guangdong on Saturday afternoon, entering Hong Kong's 400-kilometre radius at severe tropical storm intensity. Weather models differ significantly on how much rain will affect the Pearl River Delta during the school opening period from August 30 to September 1, with the European AI model suggesting a more southern trajectory could bring heavier showers to the region.
Key Points
- Four tropical cyclones are simultaneously active across the Western Pacific: Tropical Storm Zitan in the Beibu Gulf, Tropical Depression Goni near the Taiwan Strait, Tropical Depression Atsani near Yap Island, and Super Typhoon Saudel south of Japan
- Saudel is predicted to weaken from super typhoon to severe tropical storm by Saturday (August 29) afternoon as it reaches 400km northeast of Hong Kong, making an "eastern landfall" with west to southwest winds of force 4 to 5
- The European AI model forecasts a slower-moving Saudel or its remnants taking a more southern path, creating a pronounced cyclonic flow field over the coast and bringing heavier showers to the Pearl River Estuary around September 1
- Students returning to school on September 1 can expect mostly cloudy skies with temperatures between 27 and 31 degrees Celsius, along with occasional showers and thunderstorms
- The outer descending air current from Saudel will cause hot weather starting Friday (August 27), with temperatures rising to 33 degrees before the rain arrives
Why It Matters
The convergence of four tropical cyclones in the region creates heightened uncertainty in weather forecasting, as even minor changes in their interactions could significantly alter local conditions. With school opening day falling within the forecast period, parents and students should stay alert to weather updates, particularly given that different models predict vastly different rainfall intensities for the Pearl River Delta. The complex weather pattern also highlights how distant typhoons can directly impact Hong Kong's conditions days after their formation, underscoring the importance of continuous monitoring through the Observatory's official channels.
The convergence of four tropical cyclones in the region creates heightened uncertainty in weather forecasting, as even minor changes in their interactions could significantly alter local conditions. With school opening day falling within the forecast period, parents and students should stay alert to weather updates, particularly given that different models predict vastly different rainfall intensities for the Pearl River Delta. The complex weather pattern also highlights how distant typhoons can directly impact Hong Kong's conditions days after their formation, underscoring the importance of continuous monitoring through the Observatory's official channels.