Macau faces intense heat as temperatures have soared past 33 degrees over the past couple of days, driving residents and tourists alike to seek shade, cold drinks, and shelter from the Sun, as forecasters warned of an approaching tropical disturbance that could develop into Typhoon “Xideng” and impact the region early next week.
Temperatures soared above 33 degrees Celsius, according to the statement from the Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau (SMG) yesterday. Under the influence of a high-altitude anticyclone and weak wind conditions, the city experienced stifling humidity, causing residents and tourists alike to seek relief in shaded areas, be it cold drinks, desserts, and air-conditioned spaces. The statement noted that the mercury is expected to peak at 35 degrees Celsius or even higher in the upcoming days, with possible thunderstorms in the afternoon.
A “tropical disturbance” is currently forming in the northwest Pacific and is forecast to develop into a tropical cyclone within the next two to three days, the statement said. The potential Typhoon “Xideng” could enter the northern South China Sea over the weekend and approach the western coast of Guangdong between Sunday and Monday.
The local observatory cautioned in the statement that if the storm follows the projected “Xideng” path, Macau may face significantly strengthened wind and rainfall early next week, along with possible coastal flooding due to the coincidence of astronomical high tides. However, the predicted weather forecast remains uncertain, the observatory admitted, including the storm’s exact formation point and its strength after possibly crossing Luzon island in the Philippines.
The weather station urged the public to stay alert for weather updates and prepare for both the extreme heat and the possibility of a typhoon in the days ahead.
Heat-stressed customers queue for icy desserts at a kiosk near the city’s main square, Largo do Senado, yesterday afternoon. – Photo: Khalel Vallo
