(Super Typhoon Ragasa) Rosanna Law urges public to avoid water sports, cites rescue risks

Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law Shuk-pui has issued a strong plea to the public to avoid dangerous water activities, as Super Typhoon Ragasa approaches Hong Kong.

The Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) has hoisted the Standby Signal No. 1 at 12.20pm today and will escalate the warning to the Strong Wind Signal No. 3 at 9.40pm tonight. It will also consider issuing the higher Gale or Storm Signal No. 8 between 1pm and 4pm tomorrow as the situation is expected to deteriorate rapidly.

The top official made an urgent appeal during a radio program on Monday, emphatically urging people not to go surfing during the typhoon.

She highlighted that surfing is already prohibited at beaches managed by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), but the warning carried a deeper, more emotional weight.

Law stressed that the decision isn't just about rules; it's about life and death.

"It's not about issuing a fine," she said. "The danger extends to the police, fire services, and Civil Aid Service colleagues who would have to rescue you... In the past, there have been rescue colleagues who sacrificed their lives."

The HKO has forecast that the weather will deteriorate rapidly tomorrow afternoon, with Ragasa expected to bring very high seas and swells. All LCSD beaches will fly the red flag under the Strong Wind Signal No. 3, indicating that swimming is prohibited.

Law also outlined the department's preparations, noting that the LCSD has been conducting inspections of its parks over the past three days. These checks include identifying and pruning weak trees or overhanging branches to mitigate potential hazards.

(Marco Lam)