Observatory considering to issue standby signal No. 1

A tropical depression may be developing in the northern South China Sea.

The Hong Kong Observatory may issue a standby signal No. 1 between tonight and the early tomorrow morning, depending on changing weather conditions.

Hong Kong has been baking in blistering heat over the past several days as the city entered into the summer period.

Several areas in Hong Kong recorded temperatures above 33 degrees Celsius, with the higher temperatures recorded in Sheung Shui at 35.1 degrees, while the mercury hit 34 degrees at both Yuen Long Park and Chek Lap Kok.

A trough of low pressure continues to develop in the northern South China Sea and is on track to reach the Guangdong coastline.

Weather authorities believe it may develop into a tropical depression that reaches Hong Kong as early as tomorrow morning.

It is forecasted to skirt within 100 kilometres of the city.

This as the Observatory assess weather conditions between tonight and the early hours of tomorrow before deciding to issue the standby signal No. 1.

Weather authorities also predict heavy thunderstorms and strong gusts on Tuesday, adding they may have to issue rainstorm warning signals or the local heavy rain advisory.

The downpours are also expected to continue in various parts of the city on Wednesday, during which tens of thousands of candidates of the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education Examination are set to receive their exam results.

Addressing the weather's effects on the release of the results, the Hong Kong Examinations and Assessment Authority reminds candidates the release will not be delayed unless the Observatory issues the black rainstorm warning signal or the city experiences other extreme weather conditions by 6:00am on Wednesday.