Hong Kong northern New Territories floods as 120mm rain pounds area
Over 120mm of rain in two hours stranded minibuses and flooded low-lying areas.
Hong Kong's northern districts were drenched in a downpour on Wednesday night when the Observatory issued an amber rainstorm warning at 9pm, signalling heavy rain exceeding 30mm (1.2 inches) per hour that was likely to continue. The warning cautioned of flooding in low-lying and poorly drained areas. At 9.45pm, a flooding alert was issued specifically for the northern New Territories, with Ta Kwu Ling among the hardest-hit areas.
Ta Kwu Ling recorded more than 70mm of rainfall between about 8.45pm and 9.45pm, while over 120mm fell across the north district from 7.45pm to 9.45pm. By 10.23pm, the Observatory warned that severe rainstorms could cause serious flooding, urging public vigilance. A minibus in Sheung Shui was stranded in half a metre of floodwater, highlighting the immediate danger to commuters and residents.
- Amber rainstorm warning issued at 9pm as rain exceeded 30mm per hour.
- Ta Kwu Ling saw over 70mm in one hour; north district recorded 120mm in two hours.
- A minibus in Sheung Shui was stranded in half a metre of floodwater.
Why It Matters
Severe flooding disrupts transport, endangers residents, and highlights the need for improved drainage in vulnerable areas.