People wearing face masks to protect against the spread of the coronavirus, cross a street in Hong Kong, Dec 12, 2020. (KIN CHEUNG / AP)

HONG KONG - The Hong Kong Observatory recorded a minimum temperature of 12.5 degrees Celsius Saturday morning, the lowest so far this winter, as the winter monsoon is bringing cold weather to the coastal areas of Guangdong province.

READ MORE: 18 cities told to prepare for cold snap

The observatory reminded members of the public that it would be cold in the morning in the next couple of days and the temperature difference between day and night will be relatively large

Under the influence of the winter monsoon, the weather will be cold over the coastal areas of Guangdong in the next couple of days, according to the observatory’s latest weather forecast.

The cold weather warning is now in force in the city.

The observatory reminded members of the public that it would be cold in the morning in the next couple of days and the temperature difference between day and night will be relatively large.

The Home Affairs Department has opened 18 temporary shelters for people in need of the service, according to a statement issued by the department.

ALSO READ: HK issues cold weather warning, opens 18 temporary shelters

The temporary shelters will remain open during the daytime on Sunday when the cold weather warning is still in force.