Tue Aug 05 14:05:48 UTC 2025: **Hong Kong Drenched by Record Rainfall, Paralyzing City**

**Hong Kong –** Record-breaking rainfall has brought Hong Kong to a standstill, forcing the closure of schools, courts, and clinics, and causing widespread flooding and traffic chaos. By Tuesday afternoon, over 350mm (13.8 inches) of rain had fallen, marking the highest daily rainfall for August since records began in 1884, according to city weather authorities.

The torrential downpour follows deadly flash floods in Southern China, where five people perished in Guangdong province. Dramatic videos circulating online show water surging down hillsides and cascading through the city’s many staircases.

The highest “black” rainstorm warning, which was extended until 5pm local time, has now been issued four times in the last eight days, breaking the record for the most frequent issuance of the city’s highest weather alert in a single year. Over 9,600 cloud-to-ground lightning strikes were recorded in just seven hours this morning.

Outside Hong Kong’s largest hospital, floodwaters reached ankle height, prompting medical authorities to close clinics. Multiple reports indicate cars have been submerged in floodwaters across the city. The weather service has warned of ongoing “serious road flooding and traffic congestion.”

Hong Kong’s Chief Secretary for Administration Eric Chan has urged residents to remain vigilant and encouraged employers to implement flexible work arrangements to prioritize employee safety. Across the region, airports reported cancellation rates of approximately 20%, and speed limits were lowered due to reduced visibility.

The extreme rainfall and associated catastrophic flooding highlight the growing challenges Hong Kong and mainland China face as a result of climate change. Beyond the immediate danger to life and limb, such events can displace thousands of people and cause billions of dollars in economic losses. Hong Kong typically receives an annual average of 2,200mm (86.6 inches) of rainfall, with the majority falling between June and August.

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