Hong Kong residents should prepare for a dramatic shift in weather next week, as the Hong Kong Observatory forecasts a significant cool down driven by a vigorous northeast monsoon sweeping across the South China coast. Following a warm weekend reprieve, temperatures are expected to plummet by as much as eight degrees Celsius overnight, pushing mercury levels close to the season’s lowest and meeting the Observatory’s criteria for cold weather warnings in specific districts, most notably the northern New Territories.
Weekend Warmth Precedes Dramatic Drop
Before the arrival of the cold air mass, the territory will enjoy a brief period of warm, dry weather. The Observatory projects urban temperatures will climb to a comfortable range of 21 to 26 degrees Celsius on Saturday and 22 to 27 degrees on Sunday. These conditions will feature light to moderate easterly winds and relatively low humidity, ranging between 50 and 75 percent.
However, a sudden change is anticipated starting the following week. On Monday, winds will rapidly strengthen to force 4 to 5 from the northeast, occasionally reaching force 6 offshore. While daytime highs may still reach 25 degrees, the evening will see temperatures drop sharply to around 20 degrees.
The most marked temperature slide will occur between Monday night and Tuesday morning. Urban temperatures are forecast to plunge to 17 degrees by early Tuesday, a substantial single-night decrease. New Territories readings are expected to be several degrees lower, with areas like Tseung Kwan O, Sha Tin, Tai Po, and Shek Kong potentially seeing minima near 15 degrees. Ta Kwu Ling is forecast to be particularly cold, expected to drop to approximately 14 degrees.
Northern Territories Face Sharpest Chill
The cold spell will intensify mid-week. On Wednesday, November 19, northerly to northeasterly winds maintaining force 4 to 5 (occasionally 6 offshore) will dominate. The urban minimum temperature is projected at 17 degrees Celsius, accompanied by mainly cloudy conditions, brief light showers, and intermittent brighter spells.
District forecasts highlight the northern New Territories as the coldest region. Ta Kwu Ling is specifically forecast to hit a low of 13 degrees Celsius, close to the Observatory’s cold weather threshold, with Sheung Shui not far behind at 15 degrees. These figures will likely replace the previous autumnal minimum of 18.2 degrees, recorded at the Tsim Sha Tsui headquarters in late October.
The persistent chill is expected to continue into Thursday, with urban minima holding near 17 degrees and daytime highs hovering around 20 to 21 degrees. Humidity levels are expected to remain relatively low, near 55 percent.
Context and Preparation
The cooling trend follows the recent passage of Tropical Cyclone Fung-wong, which had minimal direct impact on the city as it curved toward Taiwan. The tropical system, however, compounded local wind conditions, with strong northeast monsoon winds lingering across parts of the territory, occasionally reaching gale force on higher ground. The Standby Signal No. 1 was recently canceled as the system moved away.
With the cold weather surge imminent, residents—particularly those in the exposed New Territories areas—are advised to take precautions.
Actionable Advice for the Cold Snap:
- Layer Clothing: Wear multiple layers, especially for outdoor activities on Monday evening and Tuesday morning.
- Monitor Vulnerable Groups: Check on elderly relatives and neighbors, as rapid temperature drops pose risks to health.
- Heating: Prepare necessary portable heating devices, ensuring they are used safely with proper ventilation.
- Stay Informed: Regularly check the latest updates from the Hong Kong Observatory, particularly for wind strength and low-temperature warnings affecting specific districts.
This robust monsoon delivery signals a decisive transition into the cooler season, requiring immediate adjustments to daily routines and outdoor planning.