Write to Win: If you could create a new weather warning signal, what would it be? (Round 4)
- Our writing contest starts with 10 students, who are eliminated one at a time based on your votes and YP editors’ picks – who will you choose?
- From flood signals to alerts about high levels of UV light, here are the new weather warnings our readers would create
With climate change leading to all sorts of weird weather, who knows what new signals we will have to make? Photo: ShutterstockRead the responses to this week’s Write to Win prompt, and choose the answer you like most. Based on your votes and YP editors’ picks, we will eliminate one contestant.
Boar: Dense Fog Signal. In Hong Kong, fog is a common phenomenon in springtime and is associated with many risks. It reduces visibility and adversely affects shipping, aviation and driving, which can lead to devastating repercussions, such as marine crashes, flight delays and road traffic accidents. In 2013, two barges carrying construction waste and sand collided in foggy conditions in Hong Kong, throwing 11 people into the water and polluting the environment. If a Dense Fog Signal had been issued at that time, the drivers of these vehicles could have postponed their trips or been more careful to avoid such a tragedy.
Monkey: A High-UV warning signal. The warning sign would be a white sun with a violet background. Although we already have UV indicators in daily weather reports, most people are not aware of the health hazards of strong UV light. This is different from the Very Hot Weather Warning, as there could still be a lot of UV light on cold days. Long-term exposure to strong sunlight can be harmful, causing problems like eye cataracts and even skin cancer. The signal will remind people to wear sun protection.
Lion: I would like to create a flood warning signal that alerts people two days in advance because it can be a deadly natural disaster. Two full days would allow people who live in potentially affected areas to leave, saving lives. Once sensors deployed on bridges and wells detect water level increasing at a high speed, machines will closely monitor its trend. Once it reaches two days before the flood is predicted to occur, my new weather warning signal will be issued and guidelines will be available on where to stay for safety.
Tiger: Over the past month, Hong Kong students missed three school days because of extreme weather, reminding us that climate change is becoming a pressing reality. I propose a higher signal - the “double-black” rainstorm warning. Now, the highest rainstorm warning is the black signal, triggered when the rainfall exceeds 70mm/h. But the rain we saw this month was more than double that amount! That’s why we need a higher signal. Although many argue that extreme downpour like this is rare, the Earth is warming rapidly, so such weather could become the new normal. The “double-black” warning will ensure everyone’s safety.
Elephant: I never thought flooding would be a problem in Hong Kong – until a week ago, when record-breaking, heavy rainfall caused serious damage to our city. But it surprised me that we don’t have any flooding warning signals. Why can’t there be flooding warning signals in all areas? Look at those closely packed buildings and roads that are built into steep slopes. One flood could wash away everything. Therefore, I think flooding warning signals are needed to give the general public enough time to prepare.
Cat: “AllerVigil” is designed to revolutionise how Hong Kong copes with allergies by going beyond typical weather forecasts and giving real-time allergen alerts. It will consider local pollen and seasonal fluctuations, allowing residents to better manage their allergies. Picture this: someone with eczema, who is particularly sensitive to weather changes and skin irritation, heads out into Hong Kong’s heat and humidity. AllerVigil stresses not only sensitivities but also well-being with its health-oriented weather alert. It could demonstrate the optimal times for outdoor activities or give advice based on air quality levels.
Dog: I propose a new weather signal called “Muggex,” derived from “muggy” and “disgusting”, to address sticky weather conditions. Unlike traditional alerts focused on safety, “Muggex” would prioritise comfort. It would provide practical guidance on staying hydrated, seeking shade, and wearing breathable clothing to alleviate the impact of such conditions. This signal’s distinct name would effectively convey the specific type of weather and its associated discomfort.