Watchdog urges Hong Kong Observatory to better explain typhoon warning decisions

The Hong Kong Observatory should step up efforts to explain decisions for issuing typhoon warnings to address public concerns amid a rise in extreme weather events, the Audit Commission has urged.Citing the forecaster, a report issued by the public sector watchdog on Wednesday noted “increasing public demand” for signal change notification well in advance over the years for timely preparation as extreme weather events became more frequent in light of climate change.“Audit acknowledges that the impact of a tropical cyclone on Hong Kong depends on many factors, and [the Observatory] has to take due consideration in upholding public safety in the operation of the tropical cyclone warning signals,” the report said.“In audit’s view, [the Observatory] needs to take measures to enhance the public’s understanding of the tropical cyclone warning system.”The forecaster should publish more comprehensive information on its website regarding the issuance of typhoon signals, such as the factors considered, and step up relevant public education and publicity work, the report said.Hong Kong’s typhoon season this year is likely to start in June and end in October. While annual rainfall was expected to be near normal, rainstorms and localised heavy rain were likely to affect the city, the Observatory said earlier.