Severe squalls associated with the thunderstorms on Monday noon gave rise to short-lived stormy conditions over the western part of Hong Kong.

Sustained wind speeds at Kwai Chung were up to about 50 kilometres an hour, with peak gustd reaching 135 km per hour.

The Observatory said it was the highest gust recorded in a non-tropical cyclone situation since the availability of wind data from 1985 for the area.

A rainband with intense thunderstorms passed through Hong Kong shortly after noon yesterday.

Severe squalls associated with the thunderstorms gave rise to short-lived stormy conditions between 12.15pm and 12.45pm.

Early May rainfall 64% above normal

During the heavy rain episode yesterday, the amber rainstorm warning was in effect between 12.10pm and 2.20pm. Up to 8pm, rainfall amounts recorded over the territory generally exceeded 60 millimetres.

Rainfall recorded since May 1 was about 120 millimetres, 64% above normal for early May, the Observatory said. Normal rainfall for the first 10 days of May should be 73 millimetres.

A trough of low pressure brought unsettled weather to the south China coastal areas. The trough is forecast to weaken over the next few days, with showers in Hong Kong becoming less frequent and more sunshine expected in the latter part of the week.

Safety tips

Squalls or violent gusts often occur with thunderstorms, bringing abrupt increases in wind speed and drastic changes in wind direction. Outdoor structures should be fastened and secured, and loose objects should be brought inside.