29th July 2025 – (Hong Kong) The Hong Kong Observatory issued a Black Rainstorm Warning at 9:10 a.m. this morning, prompting public criticism over the lack of proactive measures by the government. Workers braving the rain to commute expressed dissatisfaction, as the Steering Committee on Handling Extreme Weather, led by Chief Secretary for Administration Eric Chan, did not convene a meeting in advance of the storm.
In response to media inquiries, a government spokesperson did not directly address why no preemptive arrangements were made. Instead, they emphasised that a flexible and proactive disaster management strategy is already in place. Once the Black Rainstorm Warning was issued, the Emergency Monitoring and Support Centre under the Security Bureau was activated to oversee real-time monitoring and coordinate emergency services to safeguard public safety.
Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs Alice Mak described the storm as “very sudden,” noting that the intense rain came and went quickly, causing minimal impact. She added that care teams were well-prepared and focused on assisting areas most affected by the rain, such as the Eastern and Southern districts.
The government clarified that the Steering Committee is tasked with coordinating policies and strengthening measures to handle extreme weather events. Over the past year, departments have enhanced infrastructure to withstand severe conditions. The disaster management strategy outlines clear responsibilities for all relevant departments, ensuring close collaboration under contingency plans.
The spokesperson explained that the committee takes additional actions during severe typhoons or natural disasters likely to cause widespread damage. Following the issuance of today’s warning, the Security Bureau’s Emergency Monitoring and Support Centre integrated real-time data from various departments to minimise disruption and protect the public.
Mak also addressed questions about the measures taken by care teams during the storm, noting that temporary shelters were opened in 10 locations. However, usage was low as the rain passed quickly. She expressed gratitude to district care teams for promptly gathering and reporting local conditions to District Officers, ensuring readiness to evacuate residents if necessary. Despite the suddenness of the rainstorm, Mak reiterated that its impact was limited, and the care teams were adequately prepared.