Is Shantou Prone to Direct Typhoon Hits? How High Is the Risk?
TyphoonSays·防御问答 · City Typhon · 更新 at 2026-10-19
Geographic Fate: Why Shantou Is a "High-Frequency" Typhoon Zone
Shantou is located on the eastern coast of Guangdong Province, at the southern end of the Han River Delta, facing the South China Sea and the Northwest Pacific Ocean. From the perspective of meteorological dynamics, this geographical location places it directly on the main path of tropical cyclones making landfall or affecting China, often vividly referred to as the "bullseye" area for typhoons. Historical data supports this: whether it was Severe Typhoon USAGI in 2013, which caused serious damage, Super Typhoon MANGKHUT in 2018, or numerous other severe typhoon events earlier, all have posed direct threats or had profound impacts on Shantou.
It is important to clarify that "high risk" does not mean "landfall every time." In most cases, Shantou may be under the control of the outer circulation of a typhoon or experience a close pass. However, even without a direct landfall, the destructive power of strong winds, heavy rain, and storm surges brought by the typhoon's core cloud system cannot be underestimated. Therefore, regarding Shantou as a key area for typhoon defense is a rational understanding based on scientific facts.
Compounding Risks: Look Beyond Wind Speed to Prevent "Water Hazards"
When assessing typhoon risks, one should not only focus on the maximum central wind speed (i.e., the typhoon category) but also pay attention to the combined effects of "wind, rain, and tide." For coastal cities like Shantou, the greatest hidden danger often comes from storm surges. When a typhoon makes landfall or approaches, if it coincides with an astronomical high tide, strong winds push up seawater levels, easily causing seawater backflow, dike breaches, and severe waterlogging in low-lying areas. The destructive power of such compound disasters can sometimes exceed that of the wind itself.
In addition, slow-moving typhoons that linger for a long time lead to accumulated rainfall, increasing the risk of urban waterlogging and landslides. Therefore, when paying attention to the four-level warning signals (Blue, Yellow, Orange, Red) issued by meteorological departments, special attention should be paid to Orange and Red warnings. Once high-level warnings are issued, it indicates extremely high risk, and local governments may initiate emergency measures such as suspension of classes, work, production, transportation, and business (specific implementation standards are subject to local government announcements). Residents need to realize that the danger at this time comes not only from the wind but also from water and electricity.
Hardcore Defense: From "Passive Avoidance" to "Active Preparation"
In the face of typhoons, a scientific defense system is more valuable than panic. It is recommended that citizens establish a family defense line from the following three dimensions:
- Physical Reinforcement and Cleaning: The 24 hours before a typhoon arrives is the golden preparation period. Be sure to bring in hanging objects from balconies, such as flower pots and clothes hangers, and check and reinforce air conditioner outdoor units and window glass. Clean floor drains and roof drainage outlets to prevent rainwater backflow.
- Standardized Material Reserve: Households should always keep an "emergency kit," containing at least 3 days' worth of drinking water, non-perishable food, common medicines, flashlights, and fully charged power banks. Considering possible internet outages, it is advisable to download offline maps or keep paper backups of important contacts.
- Behavioral Avoidance Principles: During a typhoon, wading through water is strictly prohibited, as missing manhole covers or leaking cables may be hidden under the water. Do not stay near billboards, large trees, or temporary structures. Please strictly follow official local announcements for all action instructions; do not believe or spread rumors.
Although typhoons are fierce, they are preventable and controllable. Staying alert and responding scientifically are the keys to protecting yourself and your family. Real-time typhoon tracks can be queried at TaifengSays (taifengshuo.com)
This article is original educational content from TyphoonSays. Please refer to the latest official announcements from local governments for policy standards.