Observatory issues Red Rainstorm Warning Signal

The Hong Kong Observatory issued the Red Rainstorm Warning Signal at 12.05 pm on Saturday.

The Red Rainstorm Signal means that heavy rain has fallen or is expected to fall generally over Hong Kong, exceeding 50 millimeters in an hour, and is likely to continue. 

The weather watchdog said an area of low pressure is moving across the vicinity of the Pearl River Estuary, with its intense rain band affecting Hong Kong.

“A broad trough of low pressure over the northern part of the South China Sea is bringing heavy showers and squally thunderstorms to the coast of Guangdong. An area of low pressure over the trough has already entered the eastern part of Hong Kong. Under the influence of its associated band of thundery showers, winds will be occasionally strong over parts of the territory. However, its sustained winds and convections are relatively weak generally. It has not yet reached the intensity of a tropical cyclone.

“The area of low pressure is currently located at around 20 kilometres east-northeast of the Hong Kong Observatory. It is expected to maintain a relatively weak system and may move west across Hong Kong. The Observatory will closely monitor its possible development and movement. Members of the public please take note of the latest weather information,” the Observatory said.

In view of the rainstorm signal in force, the Education Bureau announced that classes of all schools are suspended this afternoon. Schools should keep their premises open and implement contingency measures to look after arriving students. Schools which are in session should continue until the end of school hours, ensuring that conditions are safe before allowing students to return home.