Typhoon Saola is expected to brush past Hong Kong and southern China, causing disruptions in the region. The storm, which lost its super typhoon status, is still a Category 4 hurricane equivalent with winds reaching 220 kilometers per hour (140 miles per hour). Hong Kong has raised its storm warning to the third highest level, and schools and businesses have closed in anticipation of the storm's arrival. Flights have been canceled, and train services in Guangdong have been suspended. The storm is projected to weaken as it approaches, but the Hong Kong Observatory warns that higher storm signals are still possible.

Experts compare Saola to Typhoon Mangkhut, which caused significant damage and loss of life in Hong Kong and Macau in 2018. The storm surge from Saola is expected to reach similar levels to Mangkhut. The ultimate track of the typhoon will determine the extent of its impact on the region. Hong Kong and Guangdong authorities are taking precautionary measures to ensure the safety of residents and minimize the damage caused by the storm.