A pedestrian covers herself from the heat of the sun in Tsim Sha Tsui, south China's Hong Kong on May 30, 2023. (EDMOND TANG / CHINA DAILY)

HONG KONG – The Hong Kong Observatory issued the Very Hot Weather warning before noon on Wednesday as parts of the city sizzled at temperatures of over 35 degrees Celsius.

The HKO issued the warning at 11 am and advised members of the public to watch out for any symptoms of heat stroke.

At 12:40 pm, temperatures in Lau Fau Shan and Sheung Shiu in the New Territories reached 36 C and 35.2 C, respectively, according to the HKO

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“Elderly persons, pregnant women, infants and children, those with chronic illnesses…as well as the obese are more vulnerable to heat stroke,” the Observatory said.

At 12:40 pm, temperatures in Lau Fau Shan and Sheung Shiu in the New Territories reached 36 C and 35.2 C, respectively, according to the HKO. In Hong Kong Island, the mercury reached 33.4 C in Happy Valley and 32.1 in Shau Kei Wan, the Observatory added.

The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health reminded members of the public, particularly those having outdoor activities, to take necessary measures against heat stroke and sunburn.

"The public should carry and drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration while engaging in outdoor activities," a spokesman for the CHP said.

READ MORE: Observatory: HK's January warmer than usual 

The HKO earlier said that the first half of the year was “abnormally warm” for Hong Kong with temperatures rising above normal levels.

Last month, the Observatory registered its hottest July day on record on July 27 as the mercury rose over 36 C.