Foreboding meteorological conditions expected in Hong Kong during the upcoming week, as Tropical Storm Podul strengthens.
Tropical Storm Podul Heads Toward Southeastern China
Tropical Storm Podul, known as a willow tree in Korean, is currently located 1,140km east-southeast of Okinawa and is intensifying. According to the Observatory, the storm is expected to move in the general direction of the vicinity of Taiwan in the next couple of days, before passing near Hong Kong around August 13-14, 2025.
Podul is a severe tropical storm, moving west at about 22 km/h. It is projected to make landfall over eastern Guangdong and southern Fujian around August 14, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and potential disruptions such as school closures, court adjournments, and flight cancellations.
The storm's approach to Hong Kong could bring unsettled weather including squally showers, heavy thunderstorms, and gusty winds. However, it is not forecasted to directly hit Hong Kong as a severe typhoon. The storm is expected to weaken somewhat by the time it approaches the city, though weather disruptions such as localized flooding and difficult conditions could occur.
Authorities in Hong Kong are closely monitoring the situation and may raise tropical cyclone warning signals depending on how close and intense Podul gets. The region has already seen flooding from previous storms, so caution is advised.
Meanwhile, the broader area of southeastern China will experience extended unsettled weather due to a trough of low pressure linked to Tropical Storm Podul, resulting in prolonged showers in the northern South China Sea and coastal provinces.
In Taiwan, the storm has already caused injuries and missing people after lashing the island with winds up to 191 kph. The Observatory's statement about the storm's projected path does not specify any potential impacts on Taiwan at this time.
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Although Tropical Storm Podul is not predicted to strike Hong Kong with full force, its encroachment could still impact the arts scene, as various concerts, art exhibitions, and outdoor performances might be canceled or postponed due to the storm's power and potential weather disruptions. Furthermore, weather forecasters anticipate that Podul's presence would influence temperature and humidity levels, potentially impacting the scheduling and performance of weather-dependent outdoor activities in Hong Kong.
