XN000022-1997-04-24 — Page 25

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Necessary precautions should be taken against hazardous weather

With the approach of the rain and typhoon season, the Royal Observatory advises members of the public to take all necessary precautions against the effects of severe weather.

"Hong Kong is frequently affected by severe rainstorms during the summer months, and although the No. 10 typhoon signal has not been hoisted since 1983, it does not mean that Hong Kong can sit back and relax in the face of potential typhoon damage," the Director of the Royal Observatory, Dr Lam Hung-kwan, said.

Over 20 persons were killed or missing, and 300 people injured, when typhoon Ellen brought hurricane force winds, heavy rain and high sea level to Hong Kong on 9 September 1983, sending dozens of ships aground and causing widespread flooding throughout the territory.

There has been no lack of calamities in recent years. Torrential rain in July 1994 caused the collapse of a retaining wall at Kwun Lung Lau Estate building in Kennedy Town, killing five people and necessitating the evacuation of one thousand families. In August 1995, heavy rain following the passage of severe tropical storm Helen brought widespread landslips, claiming three lives on Hong Kong Island.

The Observatory maintains a close watch on the weather and issues warnings whenever Hong Kong is threatened by heavy rain, thunderstorms and tropical cyclones, all of which can lead to floods and landslips. It is therefore important for members of the public to be fully familiar with the various weather warnings and take necessary measures to protect themselves.

Hinges, bolts, locks and shutters of windows and doors should be checked well before the rain and typhoon season, which normally starts in May. Owners of shop signs, overhanging neon lights, and rooftop TV reception dishes should ensure that these structures are safe and secure. Flower pots and other objects likely to be blown away should not be placed in exposed locations. Gutters and drains should be cleared of debris.

People living in low-lying areas and in areas with poor drainage should take precautions against flooding. Slope owners should ensure that their slopes are kept in good conditions, and that there is adequate drainage for rain water. Members of the public are advised to take necessary personal precautionary measures to minimize their exposures to potential landslip risk.