The Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) and the Senior Citizen Home Safety Association (SCHSA) held a joint press conference today (November 29) to remind the public to pay attention to the anticipated temperature fall in the next few days and get prepared for the winter season.
 
     The Assistant Director of the HKO, Mr Chan Pak-wai, said at the press conference, "A cold front will move across the coast of Guangdong between tonight and tomorrow morning. Under the influence of the subsequent intense northeast monsoon, temperatures will drop significantly in Hong Kong. The elderly and persons with chronic medical conditions should pay special attention to the possible health impacts brought about by the weather change. Rather cool mornings are expected in the latter part of this week. Please take care and stay warm with suitable gear."
 
     The Chief Executive Officer of the SCHSA, Ms Maura Wong, said, "With the upcoming temperature drop together with the influence of COVID-19 pandemic and the seasonal influenza, the SCHSA would like to remind the elderly to keep warm and stay safe, and to take the first three doses of COVID-19 vaccine and the seasonal influenza vaccine as early as possible with a view to enhancing protection and avoiding severe complications due to infection. If they feel unwell, they should seek help or medical advice as soon as possible. It is also important for the elderly to maintain social interaction during the pandemic. With the relaxation of the epidemic prevention measures, if weather and their physical conditions permit, they may have outdoor activities with relatives and friends. They should have enough anti-epidemic gears and warm clothing before going out, and pay attention to the latest weather information from the Observatory or check the weather of the day through the "Care-On-Call" service platform. With mutual support, we can get through the winter healthily and safely."
 
     The HKO has been closely collaborating with the SCHSA over the years to promote the use of weather information for taking better care of the elderly. The HKO regularly provides weather information to the SCHSA. When Hong Kong is expected to be affected by cold, dry or very hot weather, the SCHSA will send a special weather reminder to the elderly to take early precautions through the "Care-On-Call" service platform. Looking ahead, the two parties will continue to strengthen their collaboration and work hand-in-hand to enhance weather and health services for the elderly.
 
     The public can obtain the latest weather forecast and the nine-day weather forecast via the HKO's Dial-a-Weather service at 1878 200 or mobile app "MyObservatory", or through the HKO's website at the following links:
 
     Weather forecast: www.weather.gov.hk/en/wxinfo/currwx/flw.htm
 
     Nine-day weather forecast: www.weather.gov.hk/en/wxinfo/currwx/fnd.htm
 

Ends/Tuesday, November 29, 2022
Issued at HKT 17:40

NNNN