Hong Kong on high alert as typhoon Wipha strikes

Hong Kong raised its storm warning to the highest level on Sunday as typhoon Wipha swept past the region, bringing powerful winds, heavy rain, and widespread disruption to transport and public services.

The Hong Kong Observatory hoisted the No. 10 hurricane signal, the region's top-level tropical cyclone warning, at 09:20 local time on Sunday, as typhoon Wipha approached the region from the south.

This warning level indicates sustained winds of 118 kilometers per hour or higher, with gusts potentially exceeding 220 kilometers per hour. In the hours following the issuance, widespread parts of Hong Kong experienced intense wind and rain, with many outdoor areas exposed to gale-force conditions.

Coastal roads saw trees and branches toppled by strong gusts, while rough seas churned violently offshore. On the streets, traffic came to a near standstill, with barely any vehicles or pedestrians in sight.

All daytime classes and public schools were suspended. Ferry terminals were closed, and the Hong Kong Airport Authority reported that approximately 500 flights had been canceled, while around 400 others were rescheduled, affecting over 80,000 travelers.

The storm, although beginning to move away, continues to bring hurricane conditions to parts of Hong Kong, particularly the southwestern districts. As wind intensity gradually weakens in Hong Kong, a No. 8 gale or storm signal was issued at 16:10.

Authorities have warned the public to stay indoors, remain vigilant, and avoid low-lying or mountainous areas that may be prone to flooding or landslides.

Hong Kong on high alert as typhoon Wipha strikes

Hong Kong on high alert as typhoon Wipha strikes

Hong Kong on high alert as typhoon Wipha strikes

Hong Kong on high alert as typhoon Wipha strikes

Hong Kong on high alert as typhoon Wipha strikes

Hong Kong on high alert as typhoon Wipha strikes

The White House Office of Management and Budget released its 2027 budget proposal on Friday, which would raise U.S. defense spending to 1.5 trillion U.S. dollars while reducing funding for domestic programs.

The budget plan "builds on the president's vision by continuing to constrain non-defense spending and reform the federal government," according to a document published on the White House website.

At a White House event on Wednesday, U.S. President Donald Trump highlighted the defense spending as a priority, noting that domestic responsibilities such as health care should be shifted to the states.

"We're fighting wars. We can't take care of day care. You got to let a state take care of day care, and they should pay for it, too," Trump said.

Aside from cuts to health programs, the White House budget proposal also includes cuts to refugee resettlement aid, renewable energy projects, university grants and housing programs, among others.

The president's annual budget is often seen as a reflection of the administration's priorities, though Congress ultimately holds the authority over federal spending.

The release of the White House 2027 budget proposal came as Congress remains deadlocked over funding for the Department of Homeland Security, with Democrats pushing for immigration enforcement reforms that Republicans refuse to accept. This led to a partial government shutdown that has stretched on for nearly seven weeks.

White House seeks 1.5 trillion USD in defense spending in 2027 budget proposal