Hong Kong’s Chief Secretary Eric Chan Kwok-ki has called on employers to adopt a "reasonable and flexible approach" to work arrangements as the city grapples with its fourth black rainstorm warning in just eight days—the highest frequency on record.
The warning, issued by the Hong Kong Observatory, is expected to remain in effect until at least 3pm on Tuesday (August 5).
In a social media post, the top official urged employers to "prioritize employee safety and handle work arrangements with flexibility."
He emphasized that the government has a comprehensive emergency response mechanism in place, activating the Emergency Monitoring and Support Centre whenever a black rainstorm warning is issued. Senior officials from relevant departments closely monitor the situation in real-time and coordinate disaster relief efforts.
Chan visited the center this morning to receive updates from bureau secretaries and department representatives.
He noted that the Drainage Services Department has deployed 180 emergency response teams across the city to tackle flooding, utilizing high-capacity drainage robots to clear waterlogged areas. Teams have also repeatedly inspected and cleaned 240 known flood-prone locations.
Meanwhile, the Home Affairs Department has opened temporary shelters in various districts for residents in need of refuge. Only isolated reports of minor injuries have been recorded during this latest bout of extreme weather, he added.
