Typhoon Ragasa updates: Hong Kong Observatory to issue T8 at 2:20pm today
Summary
As Super Typhoon Ragasa approaches the Guangdong coast, the Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) is set to issue the Gale or Storm Signal No. 8 at 2:20pm on 23 September 2025. A “Pre-No.8 Special Announcement” will be made roughly two hours beforehand. The HKO may raise warnings further later tonight or into 24 September depending on the storm’s path and wind conditions. The Labour Department has issued reminders to employers to arrange work and protect employee safety under the Occupational Safety and Health Ordinance and the Factories and Industrial Undertakings Ordinance.
Key Points
- HKO to issue Tropical Cyclone Signal No. 8 at 2:20pm on 23 September 2025, with a pre-No.8 announcement about two hours earlier.
- Further increases in warning levels (Signal No. 9 or No. 10) are possible later tonight or early on 24 September depending on Ragasa’s proximity and winds.
- Labour Department urges employers to make prior work arrangements and take immediate precautions to safeguard employees.
- Employers should suspend non-essential outdoor work, arrange shelter or early leave for staff, and secure outdoor equipment.
- If employees must work, employers must assess risks in advance and implement controls to reduce hazards as far as reasonably practicable.
- Non-compliance with relevant ordinances can carry penalties up to HK$10 million and two years’ imprisonment.
- Macao’s meteorological service expects Signal No. 8 at 5pm, with a significant chance of Signal No. 9 around midnight and No. 10 early morning.
- After the typhoon, employers and employees should inspect workplaces and take safety measures before fully resuming operations.
Content Summary
The article reports that Super Typhoon Ragasa is close enough to prompt the Hong Kong Observatory to raise the Gale or Storm Signal No. 8 at 2:20pm on 23 September 2025, following a pre-warning announcement. The Labour Department reminds employers of legal duties to protect staff, including suspending outdoor work, arranging shelter or early leave, securing equipment, and conducting risk assessments for any essential duties. Severe penalties apply for failing to comply. Macao is likely to raise similar warnings later in the day and possibly overnight.
Context and Relevance
This is a time-sensitive public-safety and labour-guidance update. Businesses operating in Hong Kong and Macau must act fast to protect staff, assets and legal compliance. The update ties into broader seasonal typhoon risks in the region and ongoing employer responsibilities for workplace safety during extreme weather events.
Author style
Punchy: this is concise, action-oriented reporting aimed at employers and HR teams — it flags urgent steps you must take now rather than burying the advice in long background copy.
Why should I read this
Quick heads-up: if you run a team, manage sites or have staff in Hong Kong/Macau, this affects you right away. Read this so you know the timing of warnings, your legal duties, and the practical moves to keep people and property safe. Saves you scrambling later.