​The Islands District Office (IsDO) announces that an emergency co-ordination centre at the Tai O Rural Committee Office will be activated at 7pm tonight (November 18), in view of the Hong Kong Observatory's forecast of a spring tide today and tomorrow. Together with the combined effect of the northeast monsoon and severe tropical storm Man-yi, the sea level at Tai O may rise to 3.3 metres above Chart Datum or more at around 10pm tonight, and minor flooding may occur in the low-lying areas of Tai O.
The centre is jointly set up by the IsDO, the Fire Services Department (FSD), the Hong Kong Police Force, the Social Welfare Department, other government departments concerned and relevant non-governmental organisations. The centre will co-ordinate any necessary evacuation, rescue and emergency relief efforts for Tai O. In addition, temporary shelters at the Tai O Rural Committee Office and the Hong Kong Young Women's Christian Association Tai O Community Work Office on the ground floor of the Lung Tin Shopping Centre, as well as the Lung Tin Transit Centre, will also be opened for residents in need from 7pm tonight.
The FSD, Police, and Civil Aid Service will help affected residents move to temporary shelters or other safe locations as necessary.
Residents living in the low-lying areas of Tai O are advised to take shelter in a safe place before the flood arrives. The IsDO will continue to monitor the situation closely and co-ordinate with other government departments to render full assistance to residents in need.
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