The Hong Kong Observatory will enhance its forecasting techniques to meet the challenges of more extreme weather conditions brought about by climate change, Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Gregory So says.
Replying to lawmakers' questions today, Mr So noted that the Observatory's main facilities including meteorological radars, a meteorological satellite reception system and a lightning location network are adequate for meeting its present weather forecast service needs.
He added that the Observatory will keep abreast of developments and consider acquiring more advanced meteorological facilities suitable for use in Hong Kong in a timely manner.
In future, the Observatory will include more specific content and wording in its Cold Weather Warnings such as the wind chill effect and slippery icy roads to better explain the actual impact of the cold weather.
It will also provide more detailed information on regional temperatures and release the temperatures at Tai Mo Shan and Tate's Cairn from early March.
The department will strengthen public education on the impact of climate change and extreme weather.
Meanwhile, the Education Bureau clarified that the decision to suspend classes for certain schools on January 25 was made with students' safety and health as the top concern and was not taken solely on the grounds of exceptionally cold weather.
