HONG KONG — Hong Kong recorded its highest temperature since official meteorological records began in 1884 on Sunday, with the Hong Kong Observatory registering 36.9 degrees Celsius as Typhoon Dolphin approached the territory, according to the weather service.
The temperature at the Observatory in Tsim Sha Tsui reached 36.9 C, surpassing the previous record of 36.6 C recorded on Aug. 22, 2017, according to reports citing Observatory data.
The record was set as Hong Kong experienced clear and very hot conditions while Tropical Cyclone Dolphin affected the weather pattern around the territory. The Observatory said the cyclone was drawing warm air toward Hong Kong, contributing to the exceptional temperatures.
The 36.9 C reading refers to the official Observatory station and is distinct from temperatures recorded at other locations across Hong Kong. Several areas have previously registered higher local readings than the Observatory, reflecting differences in geography and exposure.
The new record exceeds the previous all-time maximum listed in the Observatory's climate records. Its 2026 almanac, updated through October 2025, recorded an absolute maximum of 36.6 C on Aug. 22, 2017.
Hong Kong authorities had already warned residents about very hot weather this summer. In May, the Observatory said temperatures in urban areas could reach 35 C, with parts of the New Territories reaching 36 to 37 C, and urged the public to take precautions against heat.
The Observatory's records date back to 1884, providing one of the longest continuous meteorological datasets in the region. Previous major heat records have also occurred in association with tropical cyclones, when atmospheric conditions can bring hot air from neighboring areas toward Hong Kong.
The record heat came as residents sought relief from the conditions at beaches, shopping centres and other cooler locations. The Observatory said hot weather was expected to continue into the middle of the week, according to local reporting.
