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Hong Kong issues its highest weather warning as rains close schools, courts, and hospital wards

Hong Kong's Weather Bureau said that its highest "black", or rainstorm, warning would remain in effect until 11 am on Tuesday. Heavy rains pounded the Asian financial center, forcing the closure of hospital wards and schools as well as the courts and register office.

These storms come after deadly flash floods that occurred in Southern China at the weekend. Five people were killed in Guangdong Province and over 1,300 rescuers took part in a massive search.

"Persistent rainfall will lead to serious flooding of roads and traffic congestion." The Hong Kong Observatory issued a warning on its website advising the public to seek shelter in a secure place.

China's weather agency reported that between 6 a.m. and 6:59 am, 9,837 lightning strikes were recorded over Hong Kong. The city and nearby Chinese city Guangzhou are receiving 60-90mm of rain per hour. Hong Kong receives 2,220mm in average annual rainfall. More than half usually falls between June and August.

Hong Kong Stock Exchange is open for business, after changing its policy late last year to allow trading in all weather conditions.

Hong Kong's Hospital Authority announced that emergency and accident wards would remain open. However, general outpatient clinics as well as geriatrics and psychiatrics day hospitals will be closed due to extreme weather.

In a press release, the judiciary stated that the courts, tribunals, and register offices will open "as quickly as possible within two hours of the cancellation of the 'black rainstorm' warning."

Post office announced that it would suspend all of its services and premises until the storm warning has passed.

Airports in the city have not reported any disruptions.

Hong Kong Disneyland is still open with limited services.

(source: Reuters)