Risk of Landslides and Floods Encourages Hongkongers to Avoid Hiking, Warn Experts
Hong Kong Braces for Continued Heavy Rainfall and Flooding Risks
After a record-breaking spell of heavy rainfall in early August 2025, Hong Kong authorities are urging the public to exercise caution and avoid outdoor activities in vulnerable areas due to the heightened risk of landslides and flash floods.
The city experienced its second-longest black rainstorm warning on Tuesday, lasting over 11 hours, with the Observatory recording 358.8mm (14.1 inches) of rainfall at its headquarters—the highest daily August rainfall on record since 1884[1][2]. This significant downpour caused significant damage across the city, with some facilities in Plover Cove Country Park and Pat Sin Leng Country Park temporarily closed[1][2].
In response, the Highways Department is still working on repairing the damaged sections of Bride's Pool Road and Lantau Island's Tung Chung Road[3]. A lane on Bride’s Pool Road that collapsed due to a severe landslide was repaired and reopened after two days[1][2]. The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department has also formally urged people to refrain from hiking for the coming days to reduce accident risks related to unstable soil conditions and unexpected landslides[1][2].
Experts have warned that the extent of soil instability is difficult to predict, and a landslide could occur suddenly and with the power of an avalanche[1]. The public is advised to monitor weather updates closely and avoid outdoor activities in vulnerable areas until conditions stabilize.
August in Hong Kong is typically warm, very humid, and marks the peak of typhoon season, further contributing to unpredictable heavy rainfall risks[3]. The city has already issued four black rainstorm warnings in eight days, a record for the highest-tier alert in a single year[4]. The Meteorological Observatory has warned of further heavy rainfall in the next few days, urging the public to remain vigilant and follow safety advice[5].
Despite the challenges, the city's Drainage Services Department is working tirelessly to clear blocked drains and improve the city's drainage system to prevent further flooding[6]. The public is encouraged to cooperate with these efforts and report any blocked drains or flooding issues to the relevant authorities.
In the meantime, the public is urged to stay safe and follow the advice of the authorities. Stay updated on weather conditions, avoid hiking and staying away from streams and large trees, and be prepared for any potential floods or landslides.
References:
- Hong Kong Standard
- South China Morning Post
- Hong Kong Observatory
- The Straits Times
- BBC News
- RTHK
In light of the continued heavy rainfall and flooding risks in Hong Kong, the public is strongly urged to stay informed about weather updates and avoid outdoor activities in vulnerable areas. This heightened caution is necessary due to the unpredictable onset of landslides and flash floods, which are exacerbated by the current instability in the environment-science sector. Furthermore, weather-forecasting indicates further heavy rainfall in the upcoming days, emphasizing the critical need for public vigilance and adherence to safety advice.
