HONG KONG — Just days after Typhoon Wipha forced the No. 10 typhoon signal across the territory, the Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) is now monitoring Tropical Storm Francisco, a newly formed cyclone east of the Luzon Strait, and another low-pressure system near Luzon that has strengthened into a tropical depression.
Tropical Storm Francisco Nears Ryukyu Islands
According to the Observatory’s update on July 23, Francisco was located approximately 670 kilometers southeast of Okinawa Island as of 10:00 AM and is moving northwest at around 22 km/h. Forecasts suggest the storm will head toward the Ryukyu Islands over the next one to two days before potentially curving toward the southeastern coast of China.
Despite the projected track bringing Francisco close to the northeast of Taiwan by Sunday (July 27), it is expected to remain outside the 800-kilometer monitoring range of Hong Kong and currently poses no direct threat to the city.
New Tropical Depression Forms Near Luzon
At the same time, the HKO issued a special weather advisory at noon on July 23, confirming that a low pressure area near Luzon has developed into a tropical depression and has entered Hong Kong’s 800-kilometer monitoring zone.
Based on current forecasts, the system is expected to linger over northern Luzon for the next couple of days, slowly gaining strength, before turning toward the eastern seas off Taiwan. The system is projected to stay over 600 kilometers from Hong Kong, and like Francisco, is not expected to bring direct impacts to the city.
Recent Typhoon Wipha Impact
Hong Kong is still dealing with the aftermath of Typhoon Wipha, which brought intense winds and storm surges on July 20. The HKO hoisted Signal No. 10 at 9:20 AM, prompting the shutdown of public transport, flight suspensions, and closure of businesses. Wipha reached its closest point to Hong Kong at midday, whipping up large waves in coastal areas like Tsim Sha Tsui and Heng Fa Chuen, drawing onlookers and photographers despite safety warnings.
Weather Outlook
Despite the presence of multiple weather systems in the region, the HKO forecasts generally stable weather in Hong Kong in the coming days. Expect sunny intervals with occasional showers, and very hot conditions on Friday and Saturday.
Possible Third System on the Horizon
In a rare development, meteorologists are also monitoring signs of a new low-pressure system that may form near Hainan Island and move eastward during the weekend. If it materializes, this would bring three tropical systems in close proximity across East and Southeast Asia—a complex scenario that could influence wind patterns and rainfall in the region.
Residents are advised to stay updated through official announcements from the Hong Kong Observatory, especially as tropical systems develop during the peak of the typhoon season.
