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The temperature in Hong Kong so far this month (July) has reached a record high as a result of the long spell of fine weather.

The average temperature recorded at the Hong Kong Observatory from July 1 to 16 was 29.9 degrees C. This equals the record set 20 years ago. This year and 1983 recorded the highest temperatures at this time of the year since records began in 1884.

The fine weather also led to high UV radiation intensity. The UV index on July 12 reached an extremely high value of 14.0, the highest since the introduction of the index in August 1999.

With a strong ridge of high pressure dominating southern China, fine weather has persisted in Hong Kong and neighbouring areas for over two weeks. The Very Hot Weather Warning has been in force for 14 days so far this month.

The total rainfall from July 1 to 16 was 23.6mm, the third lowest on record.

The weather will remain hot in the next few days. The maximum temperature in urban areas will be about 32 degrees, and a couple of degrees higher in the New Territories. The public should be aware of the risk of heatstroke and intense UV radiation. Information on relevant precautionary measures is available on the observatory's website.

For updates on the weather call the observatory on 187 8200 (Cantonese), 187 8202 (Putonghua) and 187 8066 (English), or browse its webpages:

Temperature readings:

www.weather.gov.hk/wxinfo/currwx/current.htm

UV radiation readings:

www.weather.gov.hk/wxinfo/uvindex/english/euvtoday.htm

Local weather forecast:

www.weather.gov.hk/wxinfo/currwx/flw.htm

5-day weather forecast:

www.weather.gov.hk/wxinfo/currwx/f5d.htm

End/Thursday, 17 July 2003

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