Hong Kong Observatory issues typhoon signals that directly determine whether your flight operates or gets cancelled. Signal 8 triggers automatic airport closure — No exceptions, no negotiations. Your flight will be cancelled and you'll be stuck until the signal drops to 3 or below.

Peak typhoon season runs June through November with highest risk in August-September. During my September 2019 visit, Typhoon Mangkhut triggered Signal 10 — Hong Kong International Airport shut down for 48 hours, hotels jacked rates to HK$2000+/night, and even food delivery stopped operating. Had to survive on convenience store instant noodles for two days.

Check the Hong Kong Observatory website (hko.gov.hk) before booking flights. They post 5-day weather outlooks and typhoon tracking maps. If signals 3+ are forecast during your dates, book flexible tickets or reschedule. Don't be the tourist wandering Tsim Sha Tsui during Signal 8 wondering why MTR stations are shuttered.

Signal 1 = standby, Signal 3 = strong winds, Signal 8+ = city shutdown. Learn the difference before you arrive.