Cold and Very Hot Weather Warnings

Hong Kong experiences both hot and cold seasons. The Observatory maintains a close watch on the local temperature changes. It issues the Cold Weather Warning whenever Hong Kong is affected by cold weather to remind members of the public to keep warm and to alert them of adverse health effects caused by cold weather.When Hong Kong is threatened by very hot weather, the Observatory will issue the Very Hot Weather Warning to alert the public of adverse health effects caused by hot weather and the risk of heatstroke and sunburn.

Once issued, the warnings are broadcast over radio and television. If necessary, the Observatory will hold press briefings, through which members of the public are reminded to take necessary precautions. If cold or very hot weather persists and the respective warnings remain in force, the Observatory will repeat the special announcement to alert the public to take precautionary actions.

These warnings also alert relevant government departments, such as the Home Affairs Department to consider the need to take actions, such as the opening of temporary shelters.

It is important that members of the public take note of these warnings and take steps to protect themselves and their family against cold or very hot weather. For an update on the status of weather warnings, the public may listen to radio and television broadcasts, or call the Observatory Dial-a-Weather service at 187 8200 with a selection of Cantonese, Putonghua or English language, or browse the Observatory Internet homepage http://www.weather.gov.hk/wxinfo/currwx/current.htm

Actions to be taken for Cold Weather Warning

1. Members of the public are advised to put on warm clothes and to avoid adverse health effects due to the cold weather.Make sure there is adequate indoor ventilation.
2. If you must go out, avoid prolonged exposure to wintry winds.
3. If you know of elderly or persons with chronic medical conditions staying alone, call or visit them occasionally to check if they need any assistance.
4. Make sure heaters are safe before use, and place them away from any combustibles. Do not light fires indoors as a means to keep warm.
5. Whatever the temperature, ensure that there is plenty of fresh air in your room when you are using an old-type gas water heater.

Actions to be taken for Very Hot Weather Warning

1. When engaged in outdoor work or activities, drink plenty of water and avoid over exertion. If not feeling well, take a rest in the shade or cooler place as soon as possible.
2. People staying indoors without air-conditioning should keep windows open as far as possible to ensure that there is adequate ventilation.
3. Avoid prolonged exposure under sunlight. Loose clothing, suitable hats and UV-absorbing sunglasses can reduce the chance of sunburn by solar ultraviolet radiation.
4. Swimmers and those taking part in outdoor activities should use a sunscreen lotion of SPF 15 or above, and should re-apply it frequently.
5. Beware of health and wellbeing of elderly or persons with chronic medical conditions. If you know of them, call or visit them occasionally to check if they need any assistance.