This natural disaster risk advisory evaluates ongoing and forecasted urban flooding in Hong Kong following the Hong Kong Observatory’s (HKO) announcement on 18 July 2025. Drawing from historical flooding data and urban resilience patterns, the report aims to guide preparedness, risk mitigation, and business continuity planning.
What is Risk Analysis in the Context of Natural Disasters?
Natural disaster risk assessments evaluate the impact of environmental hazards like flooding, typhoons, or earthquakes on infrastructure, public safety, operations, and critical services. These assessments support early action planning and help mitigate disruptions to life, property, and business activity.
Executive Summary: High Risk
- Date of Incident: 18 July 2025
- Location: Ngau Tam Mei, San Tin, Pat Heung, and Kam Tin, Hong Kong
- Risk Category: Natural Disasters
- Severity Score: 4/5
- Confidence Level: 90%
Severe flooding triggered by heavy rainfall has affected parts of Hong Kong. With reference to previous incidents like the September 2023 record-breaking rainfall, this event is expected to cause major disruption. Transport systems, infrastructure, and commercial operations face imminent risk of disruption. Critical areas have already reported inundation, and HKO warnings underscore the urgency for immediate preventive action and continuity planning.
Known Hotspots and Sensitive Areas
- Wong Tai Sin district and Kowloon arterial roads
- Wan Tsui Estate car park in Chai Wan
- Low-lying commercial zones in Sheung Wan and Central
- MTR station entrances and underground passages vulnerable to flooding
Impact on Transportation and Services
- Transport:
- Road closures across Kowloon and Hong Kong Island expected
- MTR, bus, and tram services may face full or partial suspension
- Flight delays and cancellations at Hong Kong International Airport
- Utilities and Public Services:
- Power and water supply interruptions in flooded zones
- Internet and telecom disruption due to substation outages
- Emergency services and pumping infrastructure under stress
Recommended Actions
- Activate flexible work policies prioritizing employee safety
- Secure all ground-floor premises and critical utilities
- Back up critical business data; test remote access systems
- Communicate proactively with clients about service disruptions
- Establish emergency response team for real-time updates and coordination
Emergency Contacts
- Police / Fire / Ambulance: 999
- Hong Kong Observatory (HKO): +852 1878 200
- GovHK Portal: www.gov.hk
- Hong Kong Transport Department: +852 2804 2600
Final Thoughts
Given the city’s recent history of catastrophic rainfall, organizations should not underestimate the flood risk. Immediate preventive steps, clear communication protocols, and flexible continuity measures are essential to navigate the disruption safely. Flood severity and frequency are increasing; adaptive resilience planning must evolve accordingly.
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