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The rainstorm warning signals (Chinese: 暴雨警告信號) are a set of signals used in Hong Kong to alert the public about the occurrence of heavy rain which is likely to bring about major disruptions such as traffic congestion and floods. They also ensure a state of readiness within the essential services to deal with emergencies.
Contents
Hong Kong Observatory is responsible for launching these signals and the signals are broadcast over radio and television.
The three-level system
The RED and BLACK signals warn the public of heavy rain which is likely to bring about serious road flooding and traffic congestion. They will trigger response actions by Government departments and major transport and utility operators. The public will be given clear advice on the appropriate actions to take.
History
In May 1992, Hong Kong Observatory recorded 109.9 mm rainfall from 6 o'clock to 7 o'clock in the morning. Later, HKO proposed Hong Kong rainstorm warning signals which included four colours, green, amber, red and black.