How to Read Typhoon Satellite Images: What Do the Different Colors Represent?
TyphoonSays·防御问答 · Typhoon knowledge · 更新 at 2026-08-10
The Temperature Code Behind the Colors
When we open a satellite image and see a typhoon resembling a giant vortex-shaped flower, the colorful shades are not the actual colors of the clouds. Instead, they form a “thermal map” created by meteorologists using infrared remote-sensing technology to translate cloud-top temperatures. In visible-light satellite images, we can only see black, white, and gray. In the more commonly used infrared-enhanced images, however, the colors correspond directly to cloud-top height and temperature.
Generally, colder colors, such as white, red, and purple, indicate higher cloud tops and lower temperatures. This means that updrafts are stronger in those areas, with more intense rainfall and convective activity. Conversely, warmer-colored areas, such as black and deep blue, usually represent low clouds or cloud-free regions where the weather is relatively calm. Therefore, understanding changes in the warm and cold colors is the first step in judging a typhoon’s intensity and structural integrity.
Interpreting Colors in the Core Area
Using “NOUL” or another intense typhoon as an example, we can focus on several key color zones:
- Deep blue/black areas: These usually represent the typhoon’s “eye.” If the eye is clearly defined, round, and black, the typhoon has a compact structure and considerable intensity. Winds within the eye are weak, and there may even be a brief spell of clear skies. However, this is only the calm before the storm, so do not go outside without caution.
- White to light gray areas: These represent the typhoon’s outer spiral rainbands. The clouds are thicker here and are accompanied by persistent rainfall and strong winds. These areas have the widest impact and the longest duration.
- Red, purple, or bright white areas: These are the typhoon’s most dangerous “eyewall” or intense convective core. Cloud tops here are extremely high and temperatures extremely low, often bringing violent winds and rain, thunderstorms, and even tornadoes. If these deep warm tones (in certain enhanced color scales) or extremely bright white tightly surround the eye, the typhoon is in a period of peak intensity or rapid strengthening.
It is important to note that color schemes for different satellite images, such as the TBB color scale, may vary slightly. However, the basic principle—that cold colors indicate strong convection at high altitudes—remains consistent.
From Satellite Images to an Action Guide
Learning to read satellite images is not merely a matter of curiosity; it is essential for disaster preparedness. When a satellite image shows a typhoon with a symmetrical structure, a clearly defined eyewall, and deep colors, it often indicates that the storm has exceptionally destructive potential. At such times, the public should closely monitor warning alerts issued by local meteorological authorities.
Under the national standard for tropical cyclone classifications in China, typhoons are divided into six categories: tropical depression, tropical storm, severe tropical storm, typhoon, intense typhoon, and super typhoon. As the category rises, the effects of wind and rain grow exponentially. When a high-level warning is issued, strictly follow local directives to suspend classes, stop work, and suspend transportation services. It is worth noting that specific criteria for suspending classes or work vary by location. Always follow notices issued by local governments and education departments.
As a typhoon approaches, even if satellite images show that your area lies outside the storm’s core, you may still be affected by sudden gusts or heavy rainfall. Clear unnecessary items from balconies in advance, stock essential supplies, and avoid traveling to coastal or low-lying areas.
Live 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.