Hong Kong is expected to turn warmer, wetter, and more humid next week as the current dry northeast monsoon gradually weakens, bringing increasing cloud cover and a higher chance of mist and light rain, according to the Hong Kong Observatory’s official nine-day forecast.
The Observatory said weather conditions in Hong Kong should remain generally fine and dry on March 15 and 16, before humidity begins to climb on Tuesday, March 17. The official forecast shows relative humidity rising to 70 to 90 per cent on March 17, followed by 75 to 95 per cent on Wednesday, March 18, when conditions are expected to turn cloudy with sunny intervals and coastal mist at night.
View the official Hong Kong Observatory weather map
The shift is forecast to become more noticeable later in the week. On Thursday, March 19, the Observatory predicts mainly cloudy and misty conditions, with one or two light rain patches in the morning and at night, alongside warm and sunny periods during the day. Similar conditions are expected on Friday, March 20, with mist, light rain patches, and occasional sunshine.
The highest chance of light rain falls on March 19 and 20, with precipitation decreasing toward the weekend. March 21 is expected to bring limited sunshine, temperatures in the low 20s, and relative humidity remaining between 70 and 90 per cent.
For residents, the shift is likely to be felt both indoors and outdoors. “My home often gets very damp, and mould starts to appear,” said Sofia Chen, who lives in Hong Kong. The humidity has gotten into every area of her apartment. Her experience reflects a common concern during periods of high humidity in the city, when moisture can build up indoors and make daily life uncomfortable.
“The weather in Hong Kong often feels stuffy, especially indoors when it gets foggy easily,” said Zia Liu, a University of Hong Kong student. She noted that the condensation on windows and mirrors becomes particularly problematic during humid spells, sometimes making it difficult to see clearly through glass surfaces in the morning.
The government’s Indoor Air Quality Information Centre, under the Environmental Protection Department, indicates Hong Kong’s warm and humid climate is particularly favourable to mould growth. Its guidance advises residents to keep indoor relative humidity below 70 per cent, deal with leaks and condensation early, dry water-damaged areas and materials within 24 to 48 hours, and clean visible mould promptly. Materials that cannot be properly cleaned should be removed to prevent the problem from spreading.
The broader weather pattern is consistent with Hong Kong’s usual spring transition. The Observatory says March and April are generally milder months, but spells of high humidity are common, and drizzle and fog can at times reduce visibility.