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Hong Kong was spared of major damage during the passage of Tropical Storm Fengshen today (June 25). As the storm is moving further away from the territory, the No. 8 Southwest Gale or Storm Signal was replaced by Strong Wind Signal No. 3 at 11.15 am. All rainstorm warnings were cancelled at 12.20 pm while Northern New Territories Flooding warning and Landslip warning are still in force.
Public transport companies are gradually resuming their services.
At at 11 am, there were 27 floodings at various locations throughout the territory and three landslide incidents at Repulse Bay, Tuen Mun and Lantau. Five reports of collapsed scaffoldings were received by the Buildings Department. No injuries from these incidents were reported.
Up to 11.15 am, the Leisure and Cultural Services Department have received 41 reports of fallen trees.
There were a number of reports of full or partial road closure in the territory due to fallen tress or collapsed scaffolding. The Transport Department has liaised with bus operators to make necessary re-routing arrangements.
The Social Welfare Department advised parents not to take their children or family members to child care centres, elderly services centres and day rehabilitation units, including sheltered workshops and day activity centres. These centres will be opened after 2 pm today, to serve those whose families cannot provide alternative care for them.
The Islands District Office has activated the Emergency Command Post at Tai O to provide assistance to the local residents. So far, no requests for assistance have been received.
The Judiciary announced that all courts, tribunals, court registries and offices will remain closed today.
The Education Bureau announced all day schools including bisessional PM primary schools are suspended today.
Clinics of the Department of Health, venues of the Leisure and Cultural Service Department and the Immigration Department will resume normal service two hours after the cancellation of typhoon signal No. 8.
Home Affairs Department has opened 22 temporary shelters and up to 11 am, 124 people have sought refuge at the shelters.
Ends/Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Issued at HKT 12:39
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