The Environment 309
is stored in the pumped storage power station, which generates hydro-electricity to meet Hong Kong's demand during peak periods.
There are regulations under the Electricity Ordinance governing the registration. of electrical contractors and workers and competent persons, safety of electrical wiring, supply of safe household electrical products and protection of electricity. supply lines from third party damage.
Climate
Hong Kong has a sub-tropical climate.
January and February are cloudier, with occasional cold weather. March and April may be mild but humid with occasional fog.
From May to August, it is hot and humid with occasional heavy rain and thunderstorms. Tropical cyclones usually affect Hong Kong between June and October, often bringing high winds and widespread heavy rain.
November and December are the months of the year with pleasant breeze, plenty of sunshine and comfortable temperatures.
The Year's Weather
In 2011, temperatures were near normal while rainfall was about 38 per cent below normal. Five tropical cyclones required the issuance of tropical cyclone warnings, one of which was a No. 8 Signal (gale or storm force wind).
Meteorological and Geophysical Services
Hong Kong Observatory
Established in 1883, the Hong Kong Observatory provides meteorological, climatological, oceanographic, geophysical and
geophysical and astronomical services. The observatory monitors environmental radiation, and administers Hong Kong's official time standard and, through publicity, teaches the public about action to take should natural disasters and climate change occur.
Weather Forecast and Information Service
The observatory issues weather forecasts and warnings about hazardous weather to the public, and to people in the shipping, aviation, transport and logistics industries. It also provides information on ultra-violet radiation and a personalised service for warning people about possible lightning strikes.
Weather information is disseminated to the public through the media, an automatic Dial-a-Weather telephone enquiry system, the observatory's website and a service, called 'MyObservatory', which conveys weather information through mobile phones anytime, anywhere. The observatory's website registered more than six billion page views in 2011, or 2.4 times more than in 2010. In addition, the observatory has increased its use of social-networking websites, including YouTube, Tudou, Twitter and Weibo, to deliver weather service.