Hong Kong's Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced on August 2 that red flags had been hoisted at several beaches because of big waves and inclement weather, according to a government notice issued that day.

The affected beaches were Shek O Beach and Big Wave Bay Beach in Southern District on Hong Kong Island; Pui O Beach in Islands District; Hap Mun Bay Beach and Silverstrand Beach in Sai Kung District; and Tai Po Lung Mei Beach in Tai Po District.

The department advised beachgoers not to swim at these beaches while the red flags were in place. The notice did not say when the flags might be lowered.