The Hong Kong Observatory issued an amber rainstorm warning on Sunday afternoon as heavy rain and thunderstorms continued to affect the city.
The warning was raised at around 3pm local time, signaling that intense rainfall and strong gusts of wind were expected to continue across multiple districts. The weather system has brought unstable conditions throughout the weekend.
Officials said heavy rain had already fallen in several areas, with rainfall rates reaching or exceeding 30 millimeters per hour in some locations. They warned that similar conditions could persist for a period of time.
The amber signal is one of the early levels of Hong Kong’s rainstorm warning system. It is issued when heavy rain is occurring or expected and may cause localized flooding, traffic disruption, and difficult travel conditions.
Authorities urged residents to remain alert and take precautions, especially in areas known to be vulnerable to flooding. People were advised to avoid unnecessary travel and stay away from low-lying or water-prone locations.
Meteorologists said the rainfall was part of a broader unstable weather pattern affecting the region. Thunderstorms and sudden downpours have been common throughout the weekend, contributing to difficult conditions for commuters and outdoor activities.
Transport services may experience delays during periods of intense rainfall, and drivers were warned to exercise caution due to reduced visibility and slippery road conditions.
The Hong Kong Observatory said it would continue to monitor the situation closely and update the public if conditions worsen or if a higher-level warning is required.
The city’s rainstorm warning system includes three main levels—amber, red, and black—depending on severity. The amber level indicates significant rainfall but does not yet represent the most extreme conditions.
Residents were reminded to stay informed through official updates and to follow safety guidance during periods of severe weather. Emergency services remain on standby in case of flooding or weather-related incidents.
The rainfall comes as the region enters a more active weather phase, with seasonal conditions often bringing frequent showers and thunderstorms. Forecasters said such systems can develop quickly and vary in intensity across short distances.
Authorities emphasized that even moderate rainstorms can lead to localized disruptions in dense urban areas like Hong Kong, where drainage systems can become overwhelmed during heavy downpours.
The Observatory advised the public to stay indoors when possible during the heaviest rain periods and to avoid outdoor activities near slopes or construction sites, where risks may increase during storms.
As of Sunday evening, the weather situation remained closely monitored, with further updates expected depending on how the storm system develops.
