The Chief Executive, Mr Ho Iat Seng, today directed Macao’s civil protection management team to employ utmost effort in responding to any adverse situations arising from the passage of Typhoon Talim.

Macao entered a state of immediate prevention from 5.30am today, as Typhoon Signal No. 8 was hoisted at that time.

Mr Ho held a meeting at the Civil Protection Operations Centre this morning, to review Macao’s preparations for storm conditions.

The Chief Executive noted there might be flooding in low-lying areas, caused by the combined effect of a high tide linked to astronomical conditions, and strong wind and rain associated with the passing weather system. He asked that utmost effort be applied to mitigate risk associated with the weather event, in order to protect the safety of residents and their property.

The civil protection management team was experienced in dealing with typhoon-related conditions, said Mr Ho. The city had put in place full preparations to cope with the passage of Typhoon Talim, the first typhoon this year to result in a Typhoon No.8 Signal being issued locally.

The team should remain vigilant regarding the risk of possible adverse conditions during the current alert, and should take all necessary steps as outlined in the civil protection plan, he said.

The Chief Executive called on Macao’s Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau to monitor closely and evaluate cautiously developments related to the passing weather system. He added that other public departments and entities should spare no effort to ensure stable supplies of water, electricity, and telecommunication services during the passage of the storm. There should be further effort to monitor closely the city’s water pumping stations and sewerage system.

Mr Ho called on members of the public to pay close attention to information issued by the Government regarding civil protection steps and weather conditions. The public should take measures for their own protection if needed and cooperate with the Government, in order to minimise the impact of the typhoon.