Workers call for 'extreme conditions' announcement for safety amid Black Rainstorm Warning

As heavy rains continue to batter the city under the Black Rainstorm Warning, many workers are turning to social media to urge the Observatory to make an "extreme conditions" announcement to suspend work and classes for the entire day.

According to the Observatory, the current rainstorm warning will remain in force at least until 3pm, following a Black Rainstorm Signal last night at 11.45pm, which was subsequently downgraded to an Amber signal at 3 am.

Reports indicate that various areas in Hong Kong recorded approximately 70 millimeters of rainfall, with regions on Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and outlying islands exceeding 100 millimeters in the past few hours.

Following reports of widespread flooding, with cars stalling on the roads, concerns over workers' safety flooded the Observatory's Facebook page.

In the post related to the black rainstorm warning, over 700 comments were received, with most users criticizing the Observatory for not announcing an "extreme condition" to suspend work and school for the day. 

Some commenters expressed disappointment over the varying rainstorm signals since last night, highlighting the risks for citizens venturing out in adverse weather conditions.

Considering the current road conditions, another commenter questioned why an "extreme condition" has not been made, stating, "I don't believe the streets are safe enough for the public to return to work even after the downgrade of the rainstorm warning."

However, some online users praised the Observatory, appreciating its decision regarding the Black Rainstorm Warning, which allowed everyone to stay in a safe place.

The government ensured that the Emergency Monitoring and Support Centre would continue to monitor the weather conditions and provide timely updates, allowing citizens to make arrangements as needed.