HKO Calendar-Preface

Preface

Looking back in 2025, Hong Kong experienced numerous extreme weather events. Despite the first half of 2025 being much drier than usual with rainfall in all six months below normal, a series of rainstorms in July and August necessitated the issuance of five Black Rainstorm Warnings, breaking the record for the number of Black Rainstorm Warnings issued in a single year. Besides, many tropical cyclones successively affected Hong Kong in the summer and autumn, breaking the highest record of the total number of Tropical Cyclone Warning Signals in a year since 1946. Among the tropical cyclones, both Wipha and Ragasa necessitated the issuance of Hurricane Signal No.10, equaling the record of issuing the No. 10 signal twice in the same year since 1964.

Facing the challenges posed by climate change, the Observatory has been dedicated to enhancing our weather monitoring and warning capabilities. In line with the theme of the World Meteorological Day 2026 “Observing Today, Protecting Tomorrow”, we have been taking proactive steps, including using artificial intelligence computer models to enhance forecasting capability, and developing a phased array weather radar network that covers the entire Hong Kong to better capture rapidly changing inclement weather events. In addition, we have also launched monthly forecasts to help the public understand the potential changes in long-term weather conditions and prepare accordingly in advance. Weather monitoring and forecasting are only the beginning in addressing climate change. The Observatory will continue to strengthen the related works and launch new products to meet public needs. At the same time, we will keep enhancing public awareness on climate change, hoping that everyone can join hands to cope with extreme weather.

Finally, we are very grateful to those who participated in the Community Weather Observing Scheme (CWOS), where majority of the photos in the Calendar originate from. These photos not only showcase the unique natural landscapes in Hong Kong, but also remind us to safeguard this land together so that the beautiful sceneries can be passed on to our future generations.

CHAN Pak-wai
Director of the Hong Kong Observatory