Michelle ThompsonUnprecedented rainfall in Hong Kong led to extensive flash flooding throughout the financial center on Friday. This occurred shortly after the city had endured a typhoon. The heavy rainfall started late Thursday night, and according to the Hong Kong Observatory (HKO), an astounding 158mm of rain was recorded between 11 pm and midnight. This hourly rainfall figure marked a historical record since records began in 1884, as reported by the government.
In response to the severe weather conditions, the meteorological bureau issued the highest-level “black” rainstorm warning, advising people to stay indoors and seek shelter. They also cautioned that the rainfall could result in flash floods and recommended that residents living near rivers consider evacuating.
During the intense rainfall in Hong Kong, taxis were submerged in floodwaters.
Images and videos from Friday depict various areas of the city submerged in water. Cars can be seen navigating through flooded roads, and individuals are wading through the murky brown floodwaters.
In response to the situation, authorities had to rescue drivers who were trapped in partially submerged vehicles. Some parking lots were so inundated that only the roofs of cars were visible above the water.
There is also widely shared online footage showing a subway station in the northern Wong Tai Sin district, where water has risen to waist-high levels, and floodwater is cascading down the station’s stairs.
A street submerged in water as a result of the heavy rainstorms in Hong Kong.
The meteorological bureau issued the most severe “black” rainstorm warning, advising residents to remain indoors.
Train services to multiple stops on the same subway line have been halted “because of flooding near Wong Tai Sin station,” as reported by the city’s subway operator. Although most other subway services are still operational, bus, tram, and ferry services have been suspended citywide due to the flooding, as stated by public broadcaster RTHK.
In the early hours of Friday morning, the government made an announcement that all schools would be closed, and they encouraged businesses to allow non-essential employees to remain in secure locations instead of commuting to their workplaces.
Pedestrians are seen waiting for a bus on a street submerged in water after heavy rainstorms.
One week following the strongest typhoon to hit Hong Kong in five years, flooding has emerged as an additional concern. Typhoon Saola, initially classified as a super typhoon, diminished in strength to a level comparable to a Category 2 hurricane upon reaching Hong Kong. Nevertheless, its impact remained significant, resulting in the toppling of trees and the cancellation of numerous flights. The government reported that 86 individuals sustained injuries as a result of the typhoon.
