Hong Kong- In the wake of relentless downpours, Hong Kong has taken the unprecedented step of closing its educational institutions. The decision came as authorities raised the rain warning signal to the second-highest level, labeled “red,” signifying an imminent threat of extensive flooding. This development follows closely on the heels of the Asian financial hub being deluged by the heaviest rainfall ever recorded in its 140-year meteorological history.
The city’s weather observatory issued the “red” signal before 6 a.m. local time, cautioning of rainfall exceeding 50 millimeters per hour, with expectations of a sustained deluge. This dire forecast warns of flash floods and anticipates watercourses being inundated.
Notably, Hong Kong’s stock market will continue to operate unless the most severe “black” warning signal is invoked.
The current heavy rainfall adds to the woes of a city still grappling with the aftermath of torrential rain linked to Typhoon Haikui, which passed nearby in recent days. The unusually wet weather has left many parts of the mountainous city vulnerable to landslides.
Some areas, like Tsueng Kwan O and Sai Kung, continue to grapple with flooding from earlier in the week. In a disconcerting development, a luxury residence in the affluent Tai Tam area, overlooking the ocean, was ordered to be evacuated due to the risk of collapse.
Just last week, torrents of waist-deep water surged through the streets of Hong Kong, inundating malls, metro stations, and tunnels. Tragically, this deluge resulted in two fatalities and left over 144 individuals injured.
As Hong Kong confronts these meteorological challenges, it underscores the city’s vulnerability to extreme weather events, necessitating vigilant preparedness and response strategies.
Source, Reuters
