How to Handle Flower Pots and Clutter on Your Balcony When a Typhoon Approaches?
TyphoonSays·防御问答 · Prepared Defense · 更新 at 2026-07-16
Clearing and Reinforcing: Eliminating the Risk of "High-Altitude Bombs"
Strong winds brought by typhoons are often accompanied by highly destructive gusts. If flower pots and clutter on balconies are not handled properly, they can easily be blown off, becoming dangerous "high-altitude bombs" that injure people. Upon receiving typhoon warning signals issued by meteorological departments, your immediate priority is to take action. According to the national standard for tropical cyclone grades by the China Meteorological Administration (CMA), destructive power increases exponentially as wind speed reaches certain levels. Therefore, do not wait until the storm is in full swing to hastily tidy up.
Move all items hanging outside railings, placed on window sills, or resting on outdoor air conditioner units—such as flower pots, mops, and clothes hangers—indoors. For large potted plants or furniture that cannot be moved inside, you must securely tie them to fixed structures on the balcony using ropes or wire to ensure their center of gravity is stable, preventing them from tipping over or shifting due to wind. Remember, any placement that seems stable may become fragile in the face of sudden gusts or during the lull as the typhoon eye passes.
Checking Drainage and Window/Door Sealing
Besides moving items, whether the balcony's drainage system is clear directly impacts home safety. Typhoons are often accompanied by heavy rain. If floor drains are blocked by leaves, soil, or debris, rainwater cannot drain in time, potentially causing backflow into the living room or even seeping into neighbors' homes below, leading to unnecessary property damage and disputes. Before the typhoon arrives, thoroughly clean floor drains and gutters to ensure unobstructed water flow.
At the same time, check the sealing of balcony windows and doors. Close and lock all windows, especially sliding windows. It is recommended to stuff towels into track gaps or use specialized weather stripping to prevent rainwater infiltration. If your home has blinds or roller shutters, roll them up or secure them to avoid being torn by strong winds. If there are cracks in glass windows, reinforce them temporarily by taping them in an "asterisk" pattern and contact professionals for replacement as soon as possible to prevent injury from shattered glass.
Continuously Monitor Warnings and Prepare for Emergencies
The impact range and intensity of typhoons change rapidly. The public should closely monitor the latest warning information released by local meteorological departments. Note that specific criteria for school and work suspensions may vary by location; please refer to announcements from local governments. During the typhoon's impact, even if winds temporarily weaken, it does not mean the danger has passed. Do not venture out or move items back onto the balcony rashly.
It is advisable to prepare an emergency kit in advance, containing flashlights, spare batteries, drinking water, common medications, and other supplies. Keep your mobile phone fully charged to maintain communication in extreme situations. Disaster prevention is not only the government's responsibility but also that of every household. Through scientific prevention and meticulous preparation, we can minimize the risks posed by typhoons and protect the safety of our families and property.
Real-time typhoon tracks can be queried at TyphoonSays (taifengshuo.com)
This article is typhoonsay's original copy content, and the local policy standards are based on the local government's latest release.