HONG KONG, Aug 22, 2008 (AFP) - Hong Kong issued its highest storm warning in five years Friday as Typhoon Nuri brought hurricane-force winds and heavy rain, halting trade on financial markets and shutting down most of the city.

Flights were delayed, schools and most offices closed and bus and ferry services suspended as the southern Chinese territory prepared to take a direct hit from the storm.

The Hong Kong Observatory issued the level-nine storm signal for the first time since 2003, signifying winds would intensify, and warned people not to venture outdoors.