The Hong Kong Observatory issued the amber rainstorm warning signal on Thursday afternoon as heavy rain was expected to continue to lash the city.  

The observatory issued the amber signal, the lowest in the three-tier warning system, at 3:40 pm after canceling the highest—black—at 3:05 pm, warning that heavy rain, exceeding 30 millimeters in an hour, was still expected to fall over the territory.

“Please continue to exercise due care. People who have to travel should carefully consider weather and road conditions and take necessary precautions,” the HKO said.

The observatory earlier raised the black rainstorm alert at 12:55 pm, warning of serious road flooding with heavy rain exceeding 70 millimeters in an hour expected to lash the city.

ALSO READ: Hong Kong issues amber rainstorm warning amid intense thundery showers

Authorities received reports of flooding in Tin Shui Wai, Yuen Long, Tuen Mun, and Ta Kwu Ling, according to police and local media.

As a protective measure, the MTR closed several exits of some stations, including exit A2 of Sham Shui Po Station, exit A1 of Choi Hung Station and exit B3 of Wong Tai Sin Station.

The observatory said heavy rain affected the northern part of the New Territories, especially Yuen Long, Sheung Shui, and Ta Kwu Ling and residents were advised to take necessary precautions against flash floods.

READ MORE: Severe weather disrupts HK-Guangdong high-speed rail services on Monday

The HKO added that the weather on Thursday afternoon and evening is expected to be cloudy with showers and a few squally thunderstorms, before improving on Friday, when the city marks the Tuen Ng Festival, popularly known as the Dragon Boat Festival.  

Gang Wen contributed to the story.