26th July 2026 – (Hong Kong) The Hong Kong Observatory has announced that the Standby Signal No. 1 will be issued at 3.20pm as Tropical Cyclone Noul continues its track further into inland Guangdong, gradually moving away from Hong Kong. With the system weakening and local winds steadily easing, the threat to the territory is diminishing. Once Noul no longer poses any risk, all tropical cyclone warning signals will be cancelled or replaced by the Strong Monsoon Signal, depending on prevailing conditions.
Despite the downgrade, weather conditions remain unsettled. Offshore areas are still experiencing occasionally strong winds, with gale-force conditions affecting high ground earlier in the day. The storm’s outer rainbands will continue to bring squally showers and thunderstorms to Hong Kong throughout the remainder of today and into early tomorrow, with periods of heavier rainfall expected.
Sea conditions also remain hazardous. Waters are rough and swells persist, prompting officials to urge the public to keep clear of the shoreline and refrain from engaging in water sports or other marine activities. In the past hour, Waglan Island recorded maximum sustained winds of 52 kilometres per hour, with gusts exceeding 67 kilometres per hour, underscoring that while the storm is retreating, caution is still required.
