Hongkongers should brace for widespread showers that could lead to flooding, the weather forecaster has said, as Tropical Cyclone Wipha edges closer to the city.

The Hong Kong Observatory cancelled an amber rainstorm signal at 1pm on Friday, nearly two hours after issuing it. It said rainfall would be particularly heavy in Yuen Long and Tsuen Wan, both western parts of the New Territories.

“Though rainstorm warning has been cancelled, people should stay alert to the danger that may be brought about by river flooding,” the forecaster said.

“Members of the public should stay on high alert and take necessary precautions to reduce their exposure to risk posed by the heavy rain and flooding.”

It also called on people to avoid watercourses and drivers to beware of “serious” road flooding and traffic congestion.