Editorial | Soaring Hong Kong temperatures turn up heat on need to find climate unity
- As city swelters and health alerts for outdoor workers and the vulnerable are issued, greater global effort in the climate change battle is called for
Summer has only just arrived, but Hong Kong is already feeling the heat. Temperatures have soared to 35 degrees Celsius and above in some parts of the city this week, prompting the Observatory to issue its new alert for extremely hot weather for the first time.
The warning, on its website and mobile app, is intended to ensure those at high risk of heatstroke take sensible precautions. It should be heeded.
The old, the young, the obese, pregnant women and those with chronic illnesses are well advised to minimise their exposure to the heat, stay hydrated and seek medical help if feeling unwell.
Another new alert, for outdoor workers, has also been issued. It is encouraging that the amber warning, requiring regular breaks, appears to have been more widely observed this time.
Employers and their staff should be aware of the guidelines and ensure they are implemented. Safety is the priority.
The hot weather has been brought by Typhoon Mawar, but it also provides yet more evidence of the urgent need to tackle climate change. Hong Kong was not sweltering alone.