The Observatory will work with the media, particularly radio stations, to study ways to enhance thunderstorm information dissemination, Observatory Director Lam Chiu-ying says.

More messages and safety tips may be included in the department's thunderstorm warnings, Mr Lam added.

Speaking on a radio talk show this morning, Mr Lam said the incidents triggered by Monday's thunderstorms showed the importance of enhancing public safety awareness and the need to improve the city's weather information dispatch.

Noting squalls or violent gusts often occur with thunderstorms, Mr Lam said it is difficult to make an accurate prediction of thunderstorm locations because the present technology is unable to do so.

"At present, we can only predict whether there will be a rainstorm in the next few hours. However, with the new lightning location system, we will be able to offer more accurate lightning information to the public."

Close working partnership

Mr Lam said his department has always worked closely with other Government departments. For example, it meets with the Transport Department to review the previous year's weather and offer advice for the coming year.

Last year, the Observatory held a series of talks to teach concerned Government officers how to interpret and use weather information. Similar talks will be organised this year.