Typhoon Wipha Disrupts Hong Kong, Stranding Passengers and Causing Chaos

On Sunday, July 20th, a powerful typhoon struck Hong Kong, causing widespread disruption and damage throughout the densely populated city. The storm, classified as a Number 10 hurricane by local officials, brought with it high-speed winds that reached up to 145 mph in some areas. The impact of the typhoon resulted in dozens of injuries and caused significant damage, including uprooted trees and collapsed scaffolding. The city's infrastructure was severely affected, leading to the cancellation of 500 flights and stranding hundreds of passengers at Hong Kong International Airport.

The aftermath of the typhoon saw even more passengers arriving at the airport, hoping to catch rescheduled flights. As a result, the airport was forced to operate its runways throughout the night and into Monday to accommodate the stranded travelers. Many passengers faced extended delays and were forced to spend multiple nights at the airport. One traveler from Indonesia, Amy, described her experience of spending 30 hours at the airport after her flight was canceled. She, along with many others, had to sleep on the floor while waiting for their flights to be rescheduled.

The departures terminal became chaotic as hundreds of passengers sought refuge and waited for updates on their flights. Ika, another stranded passenger, described the scene as overwhelming, with limited seating and a sense of uncertainty. Despite the challenges, airlines provided some assistance, such as drinks and snacks. However, many passengers were forced to miss their original travel plans and faced significant disruptions to their schedules.

While the impact of Typhoon Wipha was less devastating than some previous typhoons, it still caused considerable damage and disruption. The Hong Kong Observatory noted that the storm reached similar wind speeds and rainfall levels as more destructive typhoons in recent years. Despite the dangers, some individuals, like hairdresser Johnny Chung, chose to witness the typhoon's landfall, viewing it as an opportunity to experience the power of nature.