Hongkongers were well prepared on Thursday for the approach of Super Typhoon Yagi, which triggered the city’s first typhoon signal eight this year. The observatory put up the T8 signal at 6.20pm, and after about three hours, issued the Amber Rainstorm Warning Signal, which was taken down two hours later. Residents in the Heng Fa Chuen area said they were ready for the storm, given their neighbourhood is prone to flooding and high winds during typhoons, but some still took an evening stroll at the waterfront there. "We bought dry foods, and have taken safety precautions like taping our windows. We always take a walk after dinner no matter the condition, but we will go home soon," said a man surnamed Lo. A Primary 6 student surnamed Chan said he stayed up late to witness the higher tides, after the Education Bureau announced that all day schools would be suspended on Friday. "I'm so happy. It is so exhilarating because this is the first time I get to see it. I usually see it on TV," he said. "You can really only see it in Heng Fa Chuen. I won't be scared as long as I stand at a safe distance." Civil Aid Service officers were seen patrolling the Heng Fa Chuen promenade earlier, advising people near the water to return to safety. Meanwhile, some tourists were still taking in the night views at Victoria Harbour, even as winds strengthened. A man surnamed Li said he had walked to the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront from Ho Man Tin. "I wasn't in a good mood so I wanted to come to the promenade for the nice atmosphere. I've seen typhoons like this in the past so I'm not too worried," he said. Earlier, the government reminded residents to stay away from the shoreline during inclement weather. It added people should not take part in water sports on beaches to avoid causing danger to themselves and rescue personnel. The Hospital Authority said that two people were injured during the storm as of midnight, and have gone to hospital for treatment. Separately, the Drainage Services Department said that the Emergency Control Centre dispatched more than 60 emergency response teams at about 10pm to inspect areas prone to flooding.
