Macau suspended transport connections with Hong Kong, canceled dozens of flights, and halted bus and ferry services on Saturday night as Typhoon Tapah swept through the region, bringing heavy rain and strong winds.
The Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau (SMG) hoisted the No. 8 northeast tropical cyclone signal at 9 p.m. on September 7th, warning that winds would intensify overnight and persist until at least 10 a.m. on September 8th. Officials forecast frequent downpours and thunderstorms, with wind speeds reaching force 8 to 9 levels as the storm brushed past Macau early Monday morning.
The storm’s impact disrupted local transportation and forced closures in low-lying areas. Mocha Slot Club at Porto Interior announced it would suspend operations from 9 p.m. on September 7th, citing inundation risk, after receiving approval from the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau (DICJ). Other casinos remained open, though access was affected by the suspension of public transport services.
In a statement, the DICJ said it had coordinated with casino operators in advance of the storm to ensure employee and guest safety. “The bureau has maintained close communication with gaming concessionaires, requiring them to set up rest areas in advance of the No. 8 signal, so that staff and guests have access to food, shelter, and support during the storm,” the regulator said. The bureau added that it instructed operators to make arrangements so employees would not need to commute while the signal remains in effect.
Authorities stressed that ensuring safety remained the top priority, with strict oversight of gaming operators’ typhoon measures. “The DICJ will continue to fulfill its statutory supervision duties, upholding employee rights, including proper rest and compensation, while safeguarding the well-being of staff and guests,” the bureau stated.
