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The Hong Kong Observatory has issued a red rainstorm warning as education authorities announced the suspension of afternoon classes.

The forecaster raised the warning at 12.15pm on Friday, just 25 minutes after issuing the amber signal, the lowest level in the three-tier system.

“Areas of intense thundery showers are developing and affecting Hong Kong,” it said, urging the public to stay away from watercourses and take necessary precautions, as heavy rain could trigger flash floods in low-lying or poorly drained areas.

Unsettled weather is expected to persist into next week.