Hong Kong’s weather forecaster will lower the No 8 typhoon signal at 10.20am, as Tropical Storm Toraji is set to weaken gradually and education authorities announce that classes of afternoon schools will resume on Thursday. “Classes of PM primary and secondary schools and evening schools will resume today,” the Education Bureau said.

Rescuers of Task Force Lingkod Cagayan-Quick Response Team in the Philippines pulled the man from the Cagayan River in northeastern Philippines. (Courtesy: Cagayan Provincial Information Office)

Local winds will strengthen later today with winds offshore and on high ground occasionally reaching gales,’ forecaster says.

Hong Kong has raised its T8 typhoon signal as Tropical Cyclone Toraji neared, bringing squally showers and strong winds to the city. The Gale or Strom Signal, No. 8 was issued at 11.10 pm on Wednesday,

Devastating floods struck the northern Philippines on Monday, when Tropical Storm Toraji became the fourth tropical storm to hit the island nation in three weeks.

Update on November 13: The Hong Kong Observatory announced on November 13 at 8.15pm that the Gale or Storm Signal, No. 8 will be issued from 11.10pm and will remain in force at least until 10am the next day (November 14).

The Observatory is expected to issue a No 3 warning this afternoon, urging residents to stay away from the shoreline and avoid water sports.