Subdivided flat tenants struggle with soaring 40-degree room temperatures

Residents living in inadequate housing are enduring a scorching summer, with room temperatures recorded between 32.1 and 39.9 degrees, according to a study conducted by the Kwai Chung Subdivided Flat Residents Alliance.

The group interviewed 31 households in the district last month, during which the Observatory issued Very Hot Weather Warnings 15 times, with temperatures exceeding 28 degrees on nine hot nights.

Results showed the average temperature recorded in these households—including subdivided flats in both residential and industrial buildings, as well as rooftop and podium structures—reached 30.8 degrees.

The maximum temperatures during the day ranged from 32.1 degrees to 39.9 degrees, approximately 10 degrees higher than the average temperature recorded by the Observatory across the city.

Meanwhile, the average nighttime maximum indoor temperatures in all four types of residences -- including public housing -- were higher than those during the day, ranging from 29.6 degrees to 31 degrees, exceeding the Observatory's hot night standards.

Rooftops, terraces, and attics recorded the highest nighttime maximum temperature of 36.3 degrees, with the highest apparent temperature reaching 44 degrees.

The study also revealed significant impacts of extreme heat on residents' physical and mental health, including negative moods, increased irritability, heightened stress levels, and cases of anxiety and depression.

Some residents also reported heat-related symptoms such as severe thirst, dizziness, headaches, rapid heartbeat, or palpitations.

The group urged the government to enhance support for residents by implementing tools to assess extreme heat risks and mandating air conditioner provisions in the Basic Housing Units Bill.