How to Read Typhoon Satellite Imagery? What Do Different Colors Represent in Cloud Structures?
TyphoonSays·防御问答 · Typhoon knowledge · 更新 at 2026-08-25
When a typhoon approaches, satellite imagery is often the first meteorological information people encounter. Looking at the swirling vortices and vibrant colors on the screen, many feel confused: What do these colors actually mean? In fact, you don't need to be a meteorological expert to interpret satellite images. By mastering a few key visual features, you can roughly assess the intensity and structure of a typhoon.
The Secret of Colors: Cloud Top Height and Precipitation Intensity
In common infrared-enhanced satellite imagery, colors primarily reflect cloud top temperature, which indirectly indicates cloud height and thickness. Generally, colder colors (such as white or bright white) represent higher cloud tops and stronger convection, while warmer colors (such as gray or black) indicate lower clouds or clear skies.
- Dark Red/Purple Areas: These are the most critical colors to watch. They typically represent extremely high cloud tops and intense updrafts, indicating that severe winds and heavy rain are likely occurring below. These areas correspond to the typhoon's "core" or regions of explosive convection where energy is most concentrated.
- White/Bright White Areas: These represent thick cloud systems, usually covering the outer spiral rainbands of the typhoon. Persistent rainfall and strong winds occur here, but the intensity is generally lower than in the core red zones.
- Gray/Dark Areas: These represent low clouds or clear sky regions. If a distinct dark spot appears at the center of the typhoon, it may be the "typhoon eye," indicating a temporary lull in wind and rain. However, do not let your guard down, as the winds and rain near the eyewall are often the most violent.
Identifying Strength by Shape: From Loose to Compact
Besides color, the "appearance" of a typhoon can also reveal its intensity. According to the National Standard for Tropical Cyclone Grades issued by the China Meteorological Administration (CMA), the development process of a typhoon shows distinct morphological changes on satellite imagery:
- Loose and Asymmetric: In the initial stages of a tropical depression or tropical storm, the cloud system is often loose and asymmetric, resembling a blurry comma or an irregular cotton ball. Wind speeds are relatively low at this stage, but the path may be variable.
- Clear Spiral Structure: As intensity increases, the cloud system begins to rotate around the center, forming distinct spiral rainbands. At this point, the typhoon's structure becomes more compact, and its destructive power significantly increases.
- Dense and Rounded Center: Severe typhoons or super typhoons usually possess a clear, rounded, and small Central Dense Overcast (CDO). If a clear "typhoon eye" is visible, it indicates a very mature and stable structure with immense power.
Scientific Defense: Follow Official Warnings
Understanding satellite imagery helps us intuitively sense the approach of a typhoon, but specific disaster prevention actions must be based on official warning signals. When meteorological departments issue yellow, orange, or red typhoon warnings, it means that wind and rain impacts will reach different levels. Please note that specific criteria for school suspensions, work stoppages, and transport halts may vary by location; always refer to notifications issued by local governments and education authorities. As a typhoon approaches, minimize outdoor activities, secure windows and doors, clear clutter from balconies, and stock up on necessary emergency supplies.
Real-time typhoon tracks can be queried at TaifengSays (taifengshuo.com)
This article is typhoonsay's original copy content, and the local policy standards are based on the local government's latest release.