The Hong Kong Observatory launched on Tuesday an enhanced space weather webpage, providing information on the impact of space weather on people's daily lives.

"The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has recently included space weather in its work schedule. As a member of the WMO, it is necessary for the Observatory to enhance the knowledge of the public on this topic, which has gained attention in recent years, so that appropriate action can be taken when an extreme space weather event occurs," Director of the Hong Kong Observatory, Dr Lee Boon-ying said.

With update, the space weather webpage, introduced in 2004, will also include the latest warnings of the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) on adverse space weather.

Professor Chan Kwing-lam, an expert in solar physics from the Department of Mathematics, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, welcomed the webpage enhancement.

"Hong Kong is located in the low latitudes and the impact of adverse space weather should be minimal. However, as the city has close ties with other parts of the world, any problems with the satellite systems can lead to telecommunications and navigation problems that may affect Hong Kong and even hamper aviation safety. Hence, the effects of space weather should not be taken lightly," he said.