Editorial | Tough stand required on extreme Hong Kong weather
- City needs to not only punish storm chasers and windsurfers who endanger the lives of others, but also take more safety measures against the wrath of nature
Nature can never be tamed. But that does not mean authorities around the world should sit back and do nothing to mitigate the growing impact of extreme weather, which has become increasingly common in recent years.
The Hong Kong government also is seeking to enhance the city’s preparedness in this regard. From issuing more timely alerts to the public to punishing irresponsible thrill-seeking behaviour during inclement weather, officials are leaving no stone unturned, and rightly so.
As part of the new strategy to deal with extreme weather, the government has warned that storm chasers who ignore safety advice and venture to beaches or country parks during bad weather may be fined up to HK$2,000 (US$255) and jailed for 14 days. Currently, some departments are empowered by law to shut down beaches and country parks during severe weather.
Those who shun safety warnings would become legally liable.
The temptation to experience the full force of nature may have prompted some windsurfers and hikers to take to beaches and country parks under such circumstances. But they essentially jeopardise their own lives as well as those who have to come to their rescue.