Pinoys urged to stay indoors as Hato batters Hong Kong

Filipinos in Hong Kong were advised to stay indoors as Typhoon Hato, a maximum category 10 storm, battered the territory on Wednesday.
"The public is strongly advised to remain indoors and to take necessary precautions while the storm signal is in place," according to an advisory from the Philippine Consulate General.
Streets were largely deserted as winds intensified and rain lashed down, with many skyscrapers in the heart of the financial center in darkness as the city battened down for one of the worst storms in years.

"Lakas ng hangin sa labas at saka marami nang nalaglag na mga puno kaya hindi kami makalabas," said Lori Brunio, an OFW, in a report by GMA News' Ivan Mayrina on 24 Oras.
But despite the inclement weather, it was still business as usual for some Filipino workers in Hong Kong.
"Buti naman bukas ang wet market ng Northpoint. Meron pa rin akong mabibiling isda para sa aking employer," said Genie Sacla.
Hato forced the cancellation of hundreds of flights and the suspension of trading and classes.
Thet Philippine Consulate General said it was closed for the day and will remain so until further notice.
"Applicants with passport appointments today, 23 August, will be accommodated anytime during business hours," it said in the advisory.
The weather observatory issued a signal 10 storm warning, its highest weather warning, and said Hato will be closest to the territory in the next few hours, skirting about 50 km (31 miles) to the south of Hong Kong, and warned of flash floods.
Winds intensified in the morning, with the maximum sustained winds recorded at Tate's Cairn and Waglan Island at 77 kmh (48 mph) and 72 kmh (48 mph), with maximum gusts of 103 kmh (64 mph) and 86 kmh (53 mph) respectively. —KBK, GMA News

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