Hong Kong Observatory issues weather warning as cold front sweeps across coast of Guangdong

The Hong Kong Observatory issued a cold weather warning on Friday afternoon as an approaching cold front drifts across the coast of Guangdong, with temperatures expected to dip to 9 degrees Celsius (48.2 degrees Fahrenheit) in urban areas.

The cold weather warning was issued at 4.20pm, for the second time this year, as minimum temperatures in urban areas on Saturday are expected to drop to about 11 degrees, while the New Territories and higher ground will dip a few degrees lower. People were advised to put on warm clothes and ensure adequate indoor ventilation. They should avoid prolonged exposure to wintry winds.

The Observatory also urged Hongkongers to take care of elderly residents with chronic medical conditions or living alone by calling or visiting them to check if they needed anything.

The forecaster’s request followed recent reports that suspected Covid-19 patients had been forced to wait in the cold for hours to be admitted inside public hospitals.

Officials have already pledged to move those waiting outside inside within the day after a political heavyweight on Friday demanded the government make it a top priority.

The cold front was expected to move across the region early Saturday. With the combining effect from an intense winter monsoon, the cold and windy weather will span from Saturday morning to the middle of next week, according to Observatory.