Thunderstorm and Lightning

In Hong Kong, thunderstorms mainly strike in spring and summer, and often come with lightning and thunder.  Lightning may damage electrical facilities and cause fires.  People struck by lightning may get injured or even killed by electrocution.  There have been accidents of such kinds in Hong Kong.  When thunderstorm breaks and lightning strikes, seek indoor shelter immediately.  Do not stand on hill tops or stay near any highly conductive objects.  Keep away from trees and masts which, because of their heights, are likely to be struck by lightning.

 

Thunderstorm Warning

As a thunderstorm approaches, the Hong Kong Observatory issues a Thunderstorm Warning to notify the public that the territories of Hong Kong are likely to be affected by the thunderstorm within one to a few hours.  The warning allows those who may be affected by the thunderstorm to take precautions (for instance, engineers and building contractors may make early arrangements for workers at construction sites).  It also alerts relevant government departments and organisations that corresponding safety measures should be taken.  The Hong Kong Observatory's website shows the location of lightning graphically on a map, along with other relevant information.

 

Emergency Information

Preparation

• Check the weather forecasts and see if any thunderstorm warning signal is in force.

 

During a thunder and lightning

• Take shelter immediately inside a building and stay indoors.
• If caught outside, crouch down and keep minimal contact with the ground.
• If driving along a highway or bridge, beware of strong gusty wind.
• Do not stay on high ground or in open areas.
• Do not put up an umbrella, use a mobile phone or take shelter under a big tree if you are out in the open.
• Do not touch any metal devices such as antennas or wire netting.
• Do not use landline phones or any plug-in electrical appliances if you are indoors.
• Do not lie on wet ground.
• Do not engage in aquatic activities.