Hong Kong is set to experience humid and cloudy weather over the next few days, with relative humidity reaching up to 95 percent for eight days starting tomorrow. Occasional showers and thunderstorms are also expected towards the end of the week, according to the Hong Kong Observatory.
An easterly airstream is expected to persist over the coast of Southern China in the coming days, bringing humid and cloudy conditions to the region.
As a trough of low pressure develops over central China mid-week and gradually approaches the Guangdong coast, there will be occasional showers and isolated thunderstorms in some areas later this week.
A northeast monsoon will also affect southern China early next week, bringing a slight drop in temperatures.
According to the Observatory’s nine-day forecast, the maximum relative humidity will reach 95 percent for eight straight days starting tomorrow (Feb 23). Rain is also expected for four consecutive days from Friday (Feb 27). Residents are advised to prepare dehumidifiers for the coming “damp days”.
The weather tonight will be generally cloudy, with light to moderate easterly to southeasterly winds. Winds will strengthen tomorrow, while Tuesday and Wednesday will be warm during the day.
The season of “damp days” occurs when the northeast monsoon eases and winds over southern China shift to the south, bringing warm and moist air from the sea to land.
As the region transitions from winter to spring, the sea surface temperatures in coastal waters remain relatively low. When warm and moist air meets the cooler sea surface, water vapor in the air cools and condenses into tiny droplets, forming mist or fog and reducing visibility.
Meanwhile, as wall and floor surfaces remain cold, water vapor in the air may also condense into droplets on these surfaces. During periods of low visibility, drivers and mariners are urged to exercise caution.
Residents engaging in outdoor activities should be mindful of slippery surfaces. The humid weather can also hinder the evaporation of sweat; residents are reminded to monitor their physical condition.
