Hong Kong and southern China battles widespread flooding as region experiences record rainfall

Hong Kong and southern Chinese cities are battling widespread flooding as the region experiences some of its heaviest rainfall on record. Streets and subway stations were underwater in Hong Kong as officials shut schools and workplaces. The weather bureau said the downpour, which began yesterday, is the biggest to hit the city in nearly 140 years.

Emergency services said, more than 100 people had been taken to hospital and several rescues had taken place. Videos on social media showed the torrential rain turning streets into raging rivers, flooding shopping centres and public



transport. 

The city's cross-harbour tunnel, a key route connecting the main island to the Kowloon peninsula in its north, was inundated. The rain also triggered landslides in Hong Kong's mountainous areas - blocking some highways.

 

Heavy rain has also drenched southern China, with the city of Shenzhen - across the border from Hong Kong - reporting its heaviest rainfall since 1952. Hundreds of flights have been suspended in the Guangdong province, while local authorities asked residents to evacuate low-lying areas.