The weather in Hong Kong is subtropical. You can expect mild, dry winters and hot, humid summers. The rainy season is a long one, from spring into summer, and most of the year’s rain falls in these months.

Spring in Hong Kong, from March to May, is marked by rising temperatures and increased humidity as summer approaches. Days are often mild and pleasant, but spring is also the dampest stretch of the year. Warm, moist air blows in from the sea and cools over the still chilly ground, so thick fog and drizzle are common, and visibility can be poor. Most people here rely on a dehumidifier to keep mould off clothes and cupboards.

Summer runs from May to September, and it is the hottest, stickiest season in Hong Kong. Daytime highs are around 91°F (33°C), and hotter days are common. Air conditioning is a fact of life indoors, and nights are warm too, often above 77°F (25°C). You can expect thunderstorms, heavy showers, sudden squalls, and typhoons.

Autumn in Hong Kong, from October to early December, is the finest season of the year. By now, the humidity has dropped, and the skies are clear. Days are warm and sunny with a light breeze. Rain is uncommon, and temperatures are comfortable rather than stifling.

Winter runs from December to February in Hong Kong, and temperatures are usually between 59°F and 68°F (15°C to 20°C). Every so often, a cold front arrives from the mainland, so keep a jacket handy. Snow is all but unheard of, and frost forms only on the highest ground, such as Tai Mo Shan.

Typhoons in Hong Kong can strike from May to November, and July to September is the peak. Apart from gale-force winds, the biggest hazard is rain. Downpours can last for days at a time, and the flooding and landslides that follow can be dangerous. The Hong Kong Observatory tracks each storm and broadcasts warnings on radio and television, as well as on its website and the MyObservatory app.