The Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) today said it expects about five to eight tropical cyclones will likely hit Hong Kong during the year, which is in the normal to above normal range.
Presenting the city’s weather outlook at a press briefing, HKO Director Chan Pak-wai said the tropical cyclone season is expected to start in June or earlier and cease in October or later.
The annual mean temperature in Hong Kong is expected to be above normal this year, while the annual rainfall is expected to be near normal, ranging from 2,100mm to 2,700mm. However, Mr Chan stressed that Hong Kong may still be affected by heavy rain and advised the public to be prepared for the rain and tropical cyclone seasons.
Mr Chan also highlighted the ongoing improvements to the HKO’s various services, noting that with the rainy season approaching, the HKO will enhance its radar and satellite imagery services to allow the public to better grasp the rainfall situation in the lower atmosphere.
The department also plans to add graphical rainfall information for various districts in the next couple of months.
From the second half of this year, the HKO will, on a trial basis, attach videos featuring its forecasters explaining future weather changes on camera, to some of its Weather Notes articles.
There are also plans to add more computer model forecast products, including the forecasting of chances of thunderstorms, onto the “Earth Weather” webpage this year, to provide people with a comprehensive understanding of weather changes.
Separately, the HKO will hold open days on March 22 and 23 to showcase its work. Apart from joining the event in person with a valid ticket, members of the public can take a virtual tour on a dedicated webpage due to be launched on March 22.
