Hong Kong’s weather authorities have extended the highest-level “black” rainstorm warning until 11 am on Tuesday, as relentless downpours continue to batter the city. The extreme weather has caused widespread disruptions, including the closure of hospital wards, schools, courts, register offices, and postal services.
The warning follows a weekend of deadly flash floods in southern China’s Guangdong province, which claimed five lives and triggered a massive search operation involving over 1,300 rescue workers.
In a statement, the Hong Kong Observatory urged residents to remain indoors, warning that “persistent rainstorm will cause serious road flooding and traffic congestion.” Between 6 am and 6:59 am local time, the city recorded a staggering 9,837 lightning strikes.
Rainfall intensity is reaching 60–90mm (2.4–3.5 inches) per hour in both Hong Kong and the nearby city of Guangzhou. The region typically sees an annual average of 2,220mm of rainfall, with more than half falling between June and August.
Despite the severe weather, the Hong Kong Stock Exchange remains operational due to a policy change last year that allows trading to continue regardless of weather conditions.
The Hospital Authority confirmed that while emergency services remain open, all general outpatient clinics and day hospitals for geriatrics and psychiatry are closed. Courts, tribunals, and register offices will reopen within two hours after the warning is lifted, according to the judiciary.
Postal services, including deliveries and all post office branches, are suspended until conditions improve.
Meanwhile, Hong Kong International Airport is operating normally, with no reported disruptions. Hong Kong Disneyland remains open but is operating at reduced capacity due to the storm.
