Typhoon in Hong Kong

There was a typhoon in Hong Kong this past weekend. I have never experienced a typhoon because I have grown up in Philadelphia. Hong Kong has many islands and is in the Northern Hemisphere, and it is more open to receiving a tropical cyclone. A typhoon is a weather phenomenon where clouds are rotating, and a storm is occurring. This was a severe event because it was a signal eight typhoon. The typhoon can range from signal 1, 3, 8, 9, 10, and while experiencing a signal eight typhoon, there were extreme winds and heavy rain. Most people are getting off from work early for their safety, and many people are stocking up on a lot of foods to prepare for staying in. Most schools were closed during this time as well. I did not know what to expect when stepping out into the storm. When I knew I needed to stock up on food, I went while it was raining. People are bound to be drenched in the rain because the wind would push the rain in different directions. It can be dangerous in Hong Kong because there are many hills, and I have seen people slip when streams of water are sliding down.

Even though everyone is aware of the typhoon, most people are still outside because they are preparing if it gets any worse. When I reached the grocery stores, most shelves were empty. Most fruits, vegetables, and eggs are gone. That is when I realized how serious it was getting and that I should be at my dorm hall by now. After seeing most grocery stores run out of food, my second thought was to order many foods at restaurants. But most restaurants have closed because it is unsafe for their commute if they close later. A fast-food chain closest to me was McDonald’s, and when I walked in, the whole place was filled with people. It was interesting to see how everyone resorted to McDonald’s because most grocery stores are empty, restaurants are closed, and delivery apps are not operating.

For the next few days, I used the Hong Kong Observatory app to receive updates on the typhoon and when it would be safe to step outside. It would update citizens every couple of hours on which typhoon signal is being issued and when the warning is canceled. It was fascinating to experience a new weather phenomenon in a new country.

A Message from the Office of Global Engagement:

The safety and security of Drexel students is a priority for the University. As part of the efforts to support Drexel students that are studying abroad during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Office of Global Engagement has conducted a rigorous review of programming and provided additional support to participating students with customized pre-departure orientations and regular check-ins during the required self-isolation period and the term.