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The No. 8 Southwest Gale or Storm Signal was issued at 00.40am today (August 23). It replaces the Increasing Gale or Storm Signal No. 9 as Severe Tropical Storm Nuri is weakening gradually and moving away from Hong Kong.
The man reported missing at Big Wave Bay yesterday (August 22) afternoon has not yet been located. Sea search has been suspended due to severe weather conditions but firemen are still at the scene.
As at 9pm yesterday, a total of 70 persons have sought treatment at the Accident and Emergency Departments at public hospitals because of the typhoon. Nineteen persons (12 men and seven women) have been admitted to hospital, with one in critical condition, five in serious conditions and 13 in stable conditions.
As at 11pm yesterday, 331 people have taken refuge at 27 temporary shelters of the Home Affairs Department.
Twenty-six reports of dangerous signs, 11 reports of fallen masonry or debris and six reports of collapsed scaffoldings have been received by the Buildings Department.
One report of minor flooding has been received.
There have been a number of road closures due to fallen trees or objects and collapsed scaffoldings, but no reports of serious traffic disruption.
All ferry, tram and peak tram services and virtually all bus services have been suspended since 10 am yesterday. Train services are maintained at 10 to 30-minute intervals. As at 10.23pm yesterday, 392 flights have been cancelled, 104 delayed and 15 diverted.
Ends/Saturday, August 23, 2008
Issued at HKT 01:23
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