Hong Kong faces rising temperatures and frequent heatwaves

Hong Kong is experiencing significant climatic shifts characterized by rising temperatures and extreme weather patterns. Data from the Hong Kong Observatory indicates a substantial increase in “very hot days”—defined as days where the maximum temperature reaches 33°C or above. While the 2000s saw an average of 13.4 such days per year, the 2020s have seen more than 50 annually, with records set in 2021 and 2023.

In addition to rising temperatures, the frequency of heat warnings has tripled since 2000. The city has also seen a rise in “extremely hot days” (35°C or above), averaging 4.6 days annually over the last decade, compared to almost none in previous decades.

These environmental changes have created a dual-climate experience for residents. While outdoor temperatures remain high with extreme humidity, indoor environments such as offices, malls, and public transport utilize intense air-conditioning, leading to drastic temperature fluctuations for those navigating the city.