The Hong Kong Government Flying Service (GFS) conducted rescues under typhoon on Thursday for two mainland vessels which were in danger in the sea, southwest of Hong Kong.

Affected by tropical storm Prapiroon two mainland cargo vessels, carrying 91 people in total, were respectively besieged by rough seas at south-west of Hong Kong. The GFS was called on to carry out rescue operations, more than 50 people were saved so far.

Adverse weather affected more than 150 flights according to th eHong Kong Airport Authority. Hong Kong Dragon Air announced that all flights flying to and from Hong Kong canceled on Thursday, and they expected flights would continue to be affected on Friday.

Strong wind and heavy rain also caused trees down and traffic halt in various areas of the city.

According to Hong Kong Observatory, the center of the severe tropical storm Prapiroon was estimated to be about 280 km west-southwest of Hong Kong. The Observatory has issued the No. 3 strong wind signal.

Hong Kong regularly suffers torrential rain and flooding from typhoons that pass by the area every year.

(Xinhua News Agency August 4, 2006)