Historic Deluge Devastates Hong Kong: Worst Rainfall in 140 Years Sparks Widespread Flooding and Chaos

Hong Kong experienced the heaviest rainfall in 140 years, causing widespread flooding and disruption in the densely populated city. The Hong Kong Observatory reported a record-breaking hourly rainfall of 158.1 millimetres, the highest since records began in 1884. As a result, schools were shut, and workers were advised to stay at home.

Streets, shopping malls, and metro stations were submerged, and the city's cross-harbour tunnel was inundated with water. Landslide warnings were also issued for some areas. The territory's chief executive expressed concern and instructed all departments to respond with "all-out efforts."

The torrential rain was attributed to a trough of low pressure associated with the remnants of Typhoon Haikui, which had recently swept through Taiwan and China's Fujian province. Two typhoons, Saola and Haikui, had hit southern China the previous weekend, but Hong Kong had avoided a direct hit.

Climate change is believed to have increased the intensity of tropical storms, resulting in more rain and stronger winds that lead to flash floods and coastal damage. The heavy rainfall led to tragic consequences, with two people killed and over 100 injured.

Videos on social media showed the severity of the flooding, including motorists struggling to drive through flooded streets and metro workers wading through waist-deep water while trying to stem the flow into stations. In some areas, roads collapsed, and landslides blocked access.

The Hong Kong stock exchange had to suspend trading, and schools remained closed due to the extreme conditions. The Hong Kong government urged residents living near rivers to stay alert and consider evacuation if their homes were flooded. The observatory also warned of potential landslides and advised motorists to avoid steep slopes or retaining walls.

The city's metro operator experienced service disruptions, with stations flooded and trains unable to make stops at affected areas. The heavy rainfall also affected Hong Kong's neighboring city, Shenzhen, which recorded its heaviest rains since records began in 1952. Authorities conducted rescue operations, and cargo clearance services at the Hong Kong-Shenzhen border were temporarily paused.

The disturbance at the border coincided with Shenzhen's announcement of planned water discharge from its reservoir, which could potentially lead to flooding in northern parts of Hong Kong. The extreme weather conditions highlight the ongoing impact of climate change, with experts emphasizing the increased intensity of tropical storms and the need for adaptation measures to mitigate the risks of flooding and other weather-related disasters in highly populated coastal areas.