A powerful rainstorm hit Hong Kong on Saturday, prompting the closure of railway station entrances, suspension of ferry services, and cancellation of afternoon school classes as authorities scrambled to manage widespread flooding risks.
The Hong Kong Observatory issued a black rainstorm warning, the highest alert level, at 9:50 a.m., signaling severe weather with potential for significant disruption. By 11:45 a.m., the alert was downgraded to red, but heavy downpours persisted across the city. “More than 70 millimeters of rainfall were recorded over many places in the past couple of hours, with around 100 millimeters in parts of Kowloon and Tsing Yi,” the Observatory reported, underscoring the storm’s intensity.
The deluge led to immediate disruptions in transportation. The MTR, Hong Kong’s mass transit railway, closed entrances and exits at several stations, including Choi Hung, Wong Tai Sin, and Sham Shui Po, as a precaution against flooding. Ferry services also ground to a halt, with Coral Sea Ferry Services, connecting Kwun Tong, Sai Wan Ho, and Sam Ka Tsuen, and Tsui Wa Ferry Service trips suspended until further notice.
Flooding reports emerged early, with the Drainage Services Department confirming one incident along North Lantau Highway by 10:15 a.m. To mitigate risks, authorities deployed over 110 emergency response teams to monitor approximately 240 potential flooding hotspots across the city.
The Education Bureau acted swiftly, announcing the suspension of all afternoon classes. “Schools which are in session should continue until the end of school hours. They should ensure that conditions are safe before allowing students to return home,” the bureau stated, prioritizing student safety amid the chaotic weather.
Recreational areas were also hit hard. The Leisure and Cultural Services Department temporarily closed all beaches, and residents were urged to avoid country parks due to hazardous conditions.
As Hong Kong braces for potential further rainfall, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, urging residents to stay alert and avoid flood-prone areas.
