How Should Shantou Residents Prepare for an Approaching Typhoon?
TyphoonSays·防御问答 · City Typhon · 更新 at 2026-10-19
Warning Responses and Advance Stockpiling: Building the First Line of Defense
Shantou is located along the coast, where typhoons pose a major threat through violent winds, torrential rain, and storm surges. The key to effective defense lies in acting “early” and being “meticulous.” Residents should make it a habit to monitor weather conditions every day. Once a blue warning signal or higher is issued, a tropical cyclone is approaching or has already begun to affect the area. At this point, households should immediately activate their typhoon-preparedness plans: First, thoroughly check that all doors and windows are securely fastened; if necessary, apply tape in a “rice-character” pattern to glass windows to reduce the risk of shattering and flying shards. Second, remove all flowerpots, clutter, and hanging objects from balconies and windowsills to eliminate the danger of falling objects.
For essential supplies, residents are advised to prepare at least three days’ worth of drinking water, shelf-stable convenience foods, common first-aid medicines, flashlights, and fully charged power banks for emergency lighting and communication in case of water or power outages. Regarding school closures, workplace suspensions, and transportation disruptions, always follow the notices issued by local authorities and never follow the crowd or rely on information from unofficial channels.
Sheltering at Home and Travel Restrictions: Maintaining the Safety Bottom Line
During a typhoon, the overriding principle is to “stay indoors unless absolutely necessary.” If remaining at home, stay away from windows exposed to the wind and spend as much time as possible in an interior room without windows to reduce the risk of shattered glass or objects penetrating the building. If flooding creates a risk of electrical leakage, immediately cut off the main power supply. Residents of low-lying areas, substandard housing, or makeshift sheds must follow government instructions and relocate to designated shelters well in advance rather than leave their safety to chance.
If going outside is unavoidable in an emergency, avoid objects that may collapse, such as advertising signs, large trees, and utility poles. Stay clear of flooded areas and watch for missing manhole covers and the risk of electric shocks from water. When driving, slow down and never attempt to force your way through floodwater. If your vehicle stalls in the water, abandon it and escape immediately; do not try to restart the engine. It is particularly important to remember that when the eye of a typhoon passes overhead, there may be a brief period of “calm winds and clearing skies.” This does not mean the typhoon is over. Strong winds will soon return from the opposite direction, so remain alert, stay in a safe area, and do not venture outside without a compelling reason.
Post-Typhoon Recovery and Disease Prevention: Guarding Against Secondary Hazards
The passage of a typhoon does not mean the danger has ended. The aftermath often brings secondary risks, including landslides, mudslides, electrocution, and disease outbreaks. Residents should avoid going to the seaside immediately to watch the waves or go fishing, and should refrain from entering mountainous areas for recreation, as unstable ground or rapidly returning waves can cause accidents. When cleaning and disinfecting the home, thoroughly clean and disinfect all items soaked by floodwater. Observe the rule of “do not drink untreated water and do not eat food submerged in floodwater” to prevent intestinal infectious diseases.
If you encounter fallen power lines, damaged gas pipelines, or damaged public facilities, do not attempt to handle them yourself. Keep a safe distance and promptly contact the power, gas, or municipal authorities for emergency repairs. To obtain information, continue to follow official media reports on disaster conditions and notices concerning the resumption of work and classes. Do not believe or spread rumors. Scientific precautions and calm responses are essential to protecting lives and property. Real-time typhoon tracks can be checked on TyphoonSays (taifengshuo.com).
This article is original educational content from TyphoonSays. Please refer to the latest official announcements from local governments for policy standards.