Pedestrians in Tsim Sha Tsui cover themselves from the heat of the sun as temperatures in parts of Hong Kong rose to as high as 37 degrees Celsius on May 30, 2023. (EDMOND TANG / CHINA DAILY)

HONG KONG – The Hong Kong Observatory warned the public to take extra measures against the “extremely hot weather” around noon Tuesday as temperatures in parts of the city reached 37 degrees Celsius.

In a Very Hot Weather Warning issued at 11:45 am, the HKO said the “weather is extremely hot” and the public should watch out for any heat stroke symptoms.

On Hong Kong Island, temperatures in Happy Valley hit 36.3 C, followed by Hong Kong Park at 34.8 C, and 32.9 C in Stanley

“Under the influence of extremely hot weather and prolonged heat, members of the public should stay on the alert, drink more water and take all necessary protective measures against the heat to prevent discomforts caused by very hot weather, and pay due attention to physical conditions,” the HKO said.

ALSO READ: HKO to introduce new warning as climate warms

“If symptoms such as dizziness, headache, nausea, shortness of breath or confusion develop, take rest and seek help immediately, and seek medical advice as soon as possible,” it added.

At 1:50 pm, the air temperature in Sheung Shui in the New Territories reached 37 C, followed by Tai Lung at 36.7 C, and Tuen Mun at 36.5 C, according to the HKO website.

On Hong Kong Island, temperatures in Happy Valley hit 36.3 C, followed by Hong Kong Park at 34.8 C, and 32.9 C in Stanley.

The HKO said elderly persons, pregnant women, infants and children, those with chronic illnesses such as heart disease or high blood pressure, as well as the obese are more vulnerable to heat stroke. 

“Under extremely hot weather, beware of health conditions, ensure adequate rest, maintain normal body temperature, and avoid overheating of the body,” the HKO said.

READ MORE: HKO: 2022 among sixth warmest on record

It added that the Home Affairs Department’s temporary heat shelters will remain open while the Very Hot Weather Warning is in force.

The Labour Department also issued the Amber Heat Stress at Work Warning at 1:30 pm and reminded employers and employees that "the heat stress in some work environments is high" and for them to take appropriate heat preventive measures.