Red Rainstorm Warning in Effect; Social Welfare Centres Remain Open During Office Hours
RTHK · 2 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago5 MIN
Summary
The Social Welfare Department (SWD) has advised Hong Kong residents to refrain from sending children or elderly family members to various care and service centres as the Red Rainstorm Warning Signal remains in effect . While urging caution, the department confirmed that all affected centres will maintain their regular operating schedules during normal office hours to accommodate individuals with genuine needs . The public has been encouraged to contact their respective service providers in advance before visiting any facility .
Key Points
- The Red Rainstorm Warning Signal is currently in effect across Hong Kong, prompting the Social Welfare Department to issue safety advisories
- Parents are advised not to send children to childcare centres, neighbourhood support childcare programme units, and after-school care services for preschool and primary school students
- Elderly service centres and daytime preschool rehabilitation service units are also covered under the advisory
- Daytime rehabilitation service units including Sheltered Workshops (展能中心), Integrated Vocational Training Centres, and Integrated Vocational Rehabilitation Services Centres will remain open during normal office hours
- Citizens requiring services should contact their local centres or service units beforehand to confirm availability
Why It Matters
This advisory affects thousands of families across Hong Kong who rely on these essential social welfare services, particularly during severe weather when vulnerable populations such as children, elderly residents, and persons with disabilities face heightened risks . The dual approach of discouraging non-essential visits while maintaining operational capacity reflects the government's ongoing effort to balance public safety with the continuous provision of critical community support services during extreme weather events .
This advisory affects thousands of families across Hong Kong who rely on these essential social welfare services, particularly during severe weather when vulnerable populations such as children, elderly residents, and persons with disabilities face heightened risks . The dual approach of discouraging non-essential visits while maintaining operational capacity reflects the government's ongoing effort to balance public safety with the continuous provision of critical community support services during extreme weather events .