The Hong Kong Observatory on Tuesday morning raised the amber rainstorm warning signal as severe thunderstorms lashed the city.

The observatory hoisted the signal at 5:30 am as more than 30 millimeters of rainfall were recorded over many places in the territory, with the heavy rainfall in Tsuen Wan, Yuen Long, and the North District exceeding 100 mm.

“There will be flooding in some low-lying and poorly drained areas. People who are likely to be affected should take necessary precautions,” the observatory said.

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It also released a special announcement on flooding in the northern New Territories at 8:23 am, with heavy rainfall affecting Pat Heung and Kam Tin, Sheung Shui, and Ta Kwu Ling. 

It earlier warned that a severe rainstorm over Yuen Long may cause serious flooding, adding that people should stay away from watercourses.

The observatory also issued a thunderstorm warning that was extended until 11:30 am as an active southerly airstream and upper-air disturbances continued to bring thundery showers to Guangdong and the northern part of the South China Sea.

The observatory added that the weather in Hong Kong will be mainly cloudy with occasional showers and severe squally thunderstorms on Tuesday.