Education authorities in Hong Kong announced widespread school closures Friday as severe weather continues to batter the city, with tropical storm Danas triggering heavy rainfall and potential flooding.
The Education Bureau suspended classes at all day schools, including kindergartens, primary, secondary, and special schools, citing student safety amid persistent extreme weather conditions.
The Hong Kong Observatory downgraded its rainstorm warning from red to amber Thursday, but cautioned that heavy downpours would continue. The amber signal indicates rainfall exceeding 30 millimeters per hour across the city.
“Heavy rain may bring about flash floods,” the observatory warned, advising residents to take necessary precautions and avoid watercourses.
As of Thursday morning, the Drainage Services Department had deployed approximately 100 emergency response teams and reported two flooding incidents along San Tin Highway.
The storm’s impact stems from tropical storm Danes moving southwest across eastern Guangdong, combined with an active southwest monsoon. Some areas experienced rainfall exceeding 70 millimeters, particularly around Lamma Island and southern Lantau Island.
Officials noted the minimal disruption to education, as many schools are approaching summer holidays. However, parents seeking to register children for new secondary schools will need to delay their plans until next week.
The Transport Department indicated it would coordinate with public transit operators to manage emergency services based on evolving road conditions.
Residents are advised to stay informed and follow local weather updates as the city continues to manage the storm’s potential risks.
