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Hong Kong weather
Opinion
SCMP Editorial
Editorial
SCMP Editorial

First severe storm of the year shows Hong Kong’s response can be improved

There were no serious injuries as the government response kicked in, but too many structural gaps remain

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Heavy rain in Fanling on May 20, hours before the Observatory issued a red rainstorm warning. Photo: Handout
SCMP Editorial
Editorials represent the views of the South China Morning Post on the issues of the day.
The heavy downpours that triggered Hong Kong’s first red rainstorm warning of the year should wash away any complacency about risks and the need for better preparation in a world of rapidly shifting climate patterns. Fortunately, there were no serious injuries linked to Thursday’s chaos. But it was distressing to see flooded streets, stranded cars and children caught in heavy rain on their way to school.
Government departments involved in storm responses have clearly learned from weather woes in recent years. Drainage Services Department teams and high-capacity robotic “water-pumping dragons” were rapidly deployed. Sandbags, flood walls and drones had been prepared, following last year’s Super Typhoon Ragasa.

However, far too many structural gaps remain. Many people on social media complained about a disparity between Observatory warnings and the reality on the ground. Some said forecasters continued to use “two sets of standards” for Hong Kong Island and the New Territories.

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During the recent storm, city centres remained manageable but there was severe flooding across the northern New Territories. Video clips and photos posted on social media showed a KMB double-decker bus ploughing through severe flooding along Ping Che Road in Fanling. One clip showed muddy floodwater surging onto the lower deck and passengers taking off shoes before stepping out of the bus and into the water. At another scene, a private car and a taxi were half-submerged.

With summer only just arriving and severe weather possible at any time, the authorities must review and consider updates to Education Bureau and Observatory protocols. It may be possible to tailor alerts to better protect citizens based on localised risk rather than a blanket timing mechanism. Forecasting and warning tools, including those integrating artificial intelligence, should also be explored.

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Hongkongers must also remain alert and demand an improved response that can help ensure safety as well as minimise disruptions that can cloud the city’s economic and reputational health.

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