The Islands District Office (IDO) announced that the flood alert system specially put in place for Tai O residents has been activated, following the forecast by the Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) that serious flooding may occur in Tai O. 
      
     According to the forecast of the HKO, the sea level at Tai O may rise to 3.3 metres above Chart Datum (mCD) or more in the coming few hours under the influence of the tropical cyclone, and may lead to tidal back flow and serious flooding in the low-lying areas of Tai O.
      
     The IDO has activated an emergency co-ordination centre at the Tai O Rural Committee Office, jointly set up by the IDO, the Fire Services Department (FSD), the Police, the Social Welfare Department, other government departments concerned and relevant non-governmental organisations.  The emergency co-ordination centre will co-ordinate any necessary evacuation, rescue and emergency relief efforts for Tai O.  In addition, a temporary shelter at the Tai O Rural Committee Office, the Hong Kong Young Women's Christian Association Tai O Community Work Office on the ground floor of Lung Tin Shopping Centre as well as the Lung Tin Transit Centre have been opened for residents in need.  Residents who need to stay at the Lung Tin Transit Centre may register at the Lung Tin Estate Office.
      
     The Police, the FSD and the Civil Aid Service personnel will help affected residents, if needed, to move to the temporary shelter or other safe locations.
      
     Residents living in the low-lying areas of Tai O are advised to take shelter at a safe place before the flood arrives.  The IDO will monitor the situation closely and co-ordinate with other government departments to render full assistance to residents in need.

Ends/Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Issued at HKT 9:44

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