14 Sep 2023 | 04:37 AM UTC
Hong Kong: Adverse weather forecast through at least Sept. 17
Severe weather forecast across Hong Kong through at least Sept. 17. Flooding and associated disruptions possible.
Event
Severe weather is forecast across Hong Kong through at least Sept. 17. Thunderstorms accompanied by heavy downpours, strong winds, lightning, and possible hail are likely to break out across parts of the affected region. As of Sept. 14, the Hong Kong Observatory is maintaining thunderstorm warnings. Heavy rainfall is forecast to persist over the coming days. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
Authorities in Hong Kong closed schools Sept. 14 following a red (middle level on a three-tier scale) rainstorm warning signal issued by the Hong Kong Observatory early Sept. 14; the warning signal has since been rescinded. Residents in Shek O were cut off early Sept. 14 after authorities closed Shek O Road due to debris from landslides. The road is the only road leading into the rural community; repair efforts are underway. Citybus route 9 between Shek O and Shau Kei Wan is suspended. Hong Kong's stock market remains open. The city is still recovering following heavy rainfall, flooding, and landslides caused by the passage of Typhoon Haikui. Many mountainous areas remain susceptible to landslides.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are also possible, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil. Landslides could result in structures being damaged or destroyed. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or other roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
The disruptive weather will likely cause some delays and cancellations at airports in the affected region. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, impacting freight and passenger maritime traffic. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays, as well as potential supply chain disruptions, where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in case prolonged electricity outages occur.
