Hong Kong Weather

Subtropical Climate

Hong Kong has a humid subtropical climate with distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid with occasional typhoons, while winters are mild and dry. The city experiences high humidity year-round, particularly during spring and summer months.

Temperature Ranges

• Average Annual: 23°C (73°F)
• Hottest Month: July-August (28-33°C / 82-91°F)
• Coolest Month: January-February (14-20°C / 57-68°F)
• Record High: 36.6°C (97.9°F) in August 2017
• Record Low: 0°C (32°F) in January 1893

Rainfall & Humidity

• Annual Rainfall: 2,400mm (94 inches)
• Wettest Months: May-September
• Driest Months: November-February
• Humidity: 70-90% year-round (very humid)
• Monsoon Season: May-September

Typhoon Season: May - November

Hong Kong's typhoon season runs from May to November, with peak activity in July-September. The Hong Kong Observatory issues typhoon warnings using a numbered signal system (T1, T3, T8, T9, T10), with T8 or above meaning schools, offices, and most services close.

Typhoon Signal System

• T1 (Standby): Typhoon within 800km - monitor updates
• T3 (Strong Wind): Wind increasing - secure loose items
• T8 (Gale): CITY CLOSES - stay indoors, no public transport
• T9/T10 (Severe): Very dangerous - stay away from windows

Safety Tips

• Download HKO (Hong Kong Observatory) app for alerts
• Stock up on food/water when T3 announced
• Stay indoors during T8 or above
• Avoid coastal areas and mountains
• Hotels are safe - have backup power
• Flights may be cancelled - check with airline

Impact on Travel

• T1-T3: Normal operations, monitor weather
• T8+: All public transport stops, attractions close
• After Typhoon: Services resume within 2-3 hours after signal lowered
• Frequency: 3-5 typhoons reach HK per year (T8+ is rare)

🌟 Peak Season (October - December)

Why Best: Perfect weather - comfortable temperatures, low humidity, minimal rain
Temperature: 18-28°C (64-82°F)
Pros: Ideal for outdoor activities, clear skies, festivals
Cons: Higher hotel prices, more tourists
Events: Mid-Autumn Festival, Christmas, New Year

💚 Shoulder Season (March - April)

Weather: Mild but humid, occasional rain
Temperature: 18-25°C (64-77°F)
Pros: Fewer tourists, reasonable prices, spring blooms
Cons: Fog common, high humidity (80-95%)
Events: Hong Kong Arts Festival, Rugby Sevens

🌧️ Rainy Season (May - September)

Weather: Hot, very humid, heavy rain, typhoons
Temperature: 26-33°C (79-91°F)
Pros: Lower hotel rates, summer sales, fewer tourists
Cons: Uncomfortable heat/humidity, typhoon risk, air quality
Best for: Indoor activities, shopping, food tours

❄️ Winter Season (January - February)

Weather: Mild, dry, occasional cold fronts
Temperature: 14-20°C (57-68°F)
Pros: Comfortable for sightseeing, good air quality
Cons: Lunar New Year (shops closed, very crowded)
Events: Lunar New Year celebrations

January - February

Temp: 14-20°C | Rain: Low | Humidity: 65-75%
Conditions: Coolest months, dry, comfortable
Note: Lunar New Year crowds

March - April

Temp: 18-25°C | Rain: Moderate | Humidity: 80-90%
Conditions: Warming up, increasingly humid, fog
Note: Good shoulder season

May - June

Temp: 26-31°C | Rain: High | Humidity: 80-85%
Conditions: Hot, humid, frequent heavy rain
Note: Dragon Boat Festival (June)

July - August

Temp: 28-33°C | Rain: Very High | Humidity: 75-85%
Conditions: Hottest, typhoon season peak, heavy rain
Note: Great sales, but uncomfortable weather

September

Temp: 26-31°C | Rain: High | Humidity: 75-80%
Conditions: Still hot, typhoons possible
Note: Mid-Autumn Festival

October

Temp: 23-28°C | Rain: Moderate | Humidity: 65-75%
Conditions: Perfect! Comfortable, clear skies
Note: One of the best months to visit

November

Temp: 19-25°C | Rain: Low | Humidity: 60-70%
Conditions: Excellent weather, minimal rain
Note: Peak tourist season begins

December

Temp: 16-21°C | Rain: Low | Humidity: 65-70%
Conditions: Cool, dry, pleasant
Note: Christmas and New Year festivities

Beating the Heat & Humidity

• Stay Hydrated: Drink lots of water, avoid alcohol in heat
• Seek AC: Duck into malls, MTR stations when too hot
• Avoid Midday: Stay indoors 11 AM - 3 PM in summer
• Shower Often: Multiple showers per day normal
• Antiperspirant: Essential in summer months
• Loose Clothes: Avoid tight clothing that traps heat

Rain & Typhoon Prep

• Always Carry Umbrella: Rain can start suddenly
• Waterproof Bag: Protect electronics and valuables
• Check Forecast: Use HKO app for accurate updates
• Indoor Plans: Have backup plans for rainy days
• Typhoon Alerts: Follow official warnings seriously

Air Quality Monitoring

• Check AQI: Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) daily
• Worst Months: October-February (mainland pollution)
• Best Months: May-September (cleaner due to rain)
• High AQI Days: Consider indoor activities
• Masks: Available if needed for sensitive individuals
• Apps: HKO app shows real-time AQI

Official Weather Resources

• HKO Website: www.hko.gov.hk (most accurate)
• HKO App: "MyObservatory" - essential download
• Typhoon Warnings: Government alerts via SMS
• Weather Hotline: +852 1878 200 (Cantonese/English)