Hong Kong Red Rainstorm Warning Issued, Schools Told to Keep Students Safe

Hong Kong’s weather forecaster issued a red rainstorm warning on Monday morning, urging schools to take steps to protect students. The Hong Kong Observatory upgraded the amber warning to red at 8:05 a.m., less than an hour after the amber warning was first issued at 7:10 a.m. The observatory said areas of “intense thundery showers” were affecting the region. The red warning means heavy rain is expected to cause flooding in low-lying areas and poor drainage areas. Authorities advised schools that if they were already in session, they should continue until the end of school hours but ensure conditions were safe before allowing students to leave. They also urged the public to stay indoors and avoid outdoor activities if possible. Hong Kong uses a tiered rainstorm warning system: amber, red, and black. A red warning indicates that rainfall has exceeded 50 millimeters per hour and is likely to continue. The red warning is expected to remain in effect until the rain subsides. Residents were reminded to check for updates and take necessary precautions.