Hong Kong fisherman, 67, dies after suspected lightning strike on sampan off Tseung Kwan O

A 67-year-old Hong Kong fisherman named Sin passed away after being suspected to have been struck by lightning while onboard his sampan off the coast of Tseung Kwan O during a heavy rainstorm. The incident occurred on August 27, 2026.

Sin was discovered unconscious on the sampan near the Tseung Kwan O Cross Bay Link and was reported to police at 9:14am. Police responded promptly, dispatching a vessel to the location. A red rainstorm warning signal had already been in effect.

Witnesses shared footage showing the sampan drifting amidst the heavy rain, with additional footage capturing the marine police vessel approaching for rescue. The man sustained multiple injuries across his body, indicating a possible lightning strike. He was subsequently brought to shore at the Tseung Kwan O South Landing Steps before being transported to a hospital, where he was confirmed deceased. An autopsy is currently underway to determine the exact cause of death.

The Hong Kong Observatory had raised the red rainstorm warning signal at 5:05am on Thursday, cautioning residents and warning them of the potential dangers associated with the storm. This red alert was later lowered to amber at 9:20am, which was subsequently cancelled at 10:15am. Over the course of Wednesday night and Thursday morning, more than 5,000 lightning strikes were recorded, underscoring the severity of the weather conditions experienced during this time.