Lam Chiu-ying warns of worsening global climate after hottest ‘Cold dew’ experienced by HK

Hongkongers have become increasingly used to the heat brought by worsening global climate patterns, Former Hong Kong Observatory director Lam Chiu-ying noted Thursday morning. 

This comes after the Observatory recorded a maximum temperature of 32.3 degrees Celsius on Wednesday (Oct 8), setting a new record for "Hanlu" or "Cold dew", which traditionally marks the transition from cool autumn to the chill of winter.

In his latest Facebook post, Lam reflected on how, during his youth, the Mid-Autumn Festival often required woolen vests. However, Wednesday’s heat saw urban areas reach 33 degrees, while temperatures in the northern districts soared to 36 degrees, resembling summer in the past. 

He pointed out how Hongkongers have become somewhat accustomed to the heat, gradually forgetting the significant changes in climate. He emphasized that current global climate patterns are abnormal and increasingly extreme, warning that it is the grassroots, including cleaners, street vendors, construction workers, and residents of subdivided flats who will suffer first. 

He urged the public to conserve electricity and reduce shopping. "Do as much as you can, do not add to the suffering of the impoverished," he remarked.