Source: South China Morning Post
Date: 14th August 2025

Classes Cancelled, Public Services Adjusted Amid Severe Weather and Flooding Risk.

The Hong Kong Observatory issued a black rainstorm warning at 7:50 a.m. as Tropical Storm Podul passed near the city, prompting the cancellation of all morning and whole-day school classes.

The No. 1 typhoon warning signal remains in force, with the forecaster warning of exceptionally severe rainfall in certain districts, exceeding 100mm per hour in some areas. Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and take precautions against potential flooding.

In response to the warning, the Education Bureau suspended classes across all levels and advised schools to implement contingency plans for students who arrive despite the closures. The Judiciary announced that all morning court and tribunal hearings were adjourned, with afternoon sessions also to be postponed if the black rain signal persisted past 11:00 a.m.

Several MTR station exits were temporarily closed due to the severe weather. Public hospital emergency services remain operational, but all welfare services have been suspended under the highest-level rainstorm alert.

The storm, located approximately 260km northeast of Hong Kong in the morning, is forecast to move inland over Guangdong while gradually weakening.

This extreme weather follows record-breaking rainfall last week, during which Hong Kong experienced its second-longest black rainstorm warning in history. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, with updates on service suspensions and warnings issued in real-time.

Possible Impact on Logistics:

• Port Operations: Severe rainfall and flooding risk may delay cargo handling, vessel berthing, and container yard movements at Hong Kong terminals.
• Road Transportation: Flooded streets and traffic restrictions could disrupt trucking schedules and last-mile delivery operations, especially in low-lying and affected districts.
• Air Freight: While Hong Kong International Airport remains operational, heavy rain and strong winds could cause flight delays, impacting time-sensitive shipments.
• Rail and MTR Freight Access: Temporary closure of station exits and potential flooding on key transport routes could slow intermodal transfers and workforce mobility.
• Warehouse Operations: Staff shortages due to transport disruptions and safety closures may reduce throughput capacity in storage facilities.