Temperature at Tai Mo Shan, the highest peak in Hong Kong, plummeted to subzero levels on the last day of 2020.
According to the observatory, temperatures on the mountain fell as low as -1.2 degrees overnight.
Adventure seekers hiked Tai Mo Shan around midnight hoping to catch sight of frost on the peak, Apple Daily reported. One man told the local outlet there was a line of at least 10 cars as he ascended, causing a momentary jam.
Some pitched tents to spend the night, bringing with them insulated tumblers of hot water and extra warm clothing.
Low humidity, however, kept frost from forming, disappointing those looking forward to witnessing a phenomenon rare in subtropical Hong Kong.
According to the observatory, the city is experiencing an “intense cold surge” expected to last over the next few days. The temperature in urban areas fell to 8.1 degrees this morning, the lowest so far this year.
Parts of the New Territories, including Sheung Shui, Tai Po and Sha Tin, saw temperatures hover at around 6 to 7 degrees.
Hong Kong is set to see the coldest New Year’s Day since 2005, according to forecasts.
