Why Did Hong Kong Issue a Black Rainstorm Warning Again?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In Hong Kong, the Observatory has once again issued a black rainstorm warning, marking serious weather concerns. This alert has led to the suspension of public services and closure of schools, while emergency shelters are opened for those in need. The region is experiencing extreme rainfall, posing safety risks to residents.
Key Takeaways
- Black rainstorm warning signals severe weather conditions.
- Emergency shelters are made available for those affected.
- Public services including clinics and schools are suspended.
- Intense rainfall has been reported in specific regions like Lamma Island.
- Similar weather events have led to tragedies in other areas such as Beijing.
Hong Kong, Aug 2 (NationPress) - On Saturday, the Hong Kong Observatory once again raised the black rainstorm warning signal, marking the second occurrence this week.
This alert signifies that heavy rainfall is either currently occurring or anticipated, with amounts exceeding 70 millimeters per hour, and is expected to persist.
The Emergency Coordination Centre of the Home Affairs Department of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government is now operational, providing temporary shelters for those in need.
As a result of the rainstorm, numerous public services and activities within the HKSAR have been suspended, according to reports from Xinhua.
Public general outpatient clinics and specialist outpatient clinics are closed. All schools have called off classes for the afternoon. In addition, Hong Kong Wetland Park has closed its doors, and individuals are advised to steer clear of country parks.
Previously, on July 29, the Hong Kong Observatory had issued its initial black rainstorm warning of the year.
This warning indicates that extensive regions of Hong Kong have reported or are forecasted to experience rainfall exceeding 70 mm per hour, with the heavy rain likely to continue.
According to the Observatory, vigorous thunderstorm activity linked to a broad low-pressure trough has led to notably intense rainfall on Lamma Island, where hourly precipitation has surpassed 100 mm.
Following the warning, the HKSAR government activated its Emergency Coordination Centre under the Home Affairs Department and opened temporary shelters for those needing emergency accommodation. The Education Bureau has advised schools to adopt contingency measures to safeguard students.
In a related event, at least 30 fatalities occurred due to heavy rainstorms in Beijing.
The casualties were reported in the northern mountainous districts of Beijing, with 28 in Miyun and two in Yanqing, as stated by the Beijing municipal flood control headquarters.
A total of 80,332 individuals were relocated across the city, with the highest rainfall recorded in Miyun, reaching 543.4 mm, according to local authorities.
The rainstorms have damaged 31 road sections and disrupted power supply in 136 villages.
Recently, extreme and severe convective weather, driven by warm, moist air from the edge of the subtropical high, has impacted Miyun and other regions in Beijing.
Point of View
The issuance of the black rainstorm warning in Hong Kong highlights the urgent need for preparedness measures in response to extreme weather events. It emphasizes the importance of community safety and efficient government response mechanisms during such crises.
NationPress
07/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a black rainstorm warning indicate?
A black rainstorm warning indicates that heavy rainfall exceeding 70 mm per hour is occurring or expected in the area.
What actions are being taken in Hong Kong due to the warning?
The Hong Kong government has activated its Emergency Coordination Centre and opened temporary shelters for those in need.
Are public services affected by the rainstorm?
Yes, several public services including outpatient clinics and schools have been suspended due to the severe weather.
What locations are experiencing the worst rainfall?
Lamma Island has reported particularly intense rainfall, with hourly precipitation exceeding 100 mm.
How has Beijing been affected by similar weather?
In Beijing, heavy rainstorms have resulted in at least 30 fatalities and significant infrastructure damage.
