Will There Be Typhoons in December? What Are the Characteristics of December Typhoons?
TyphoonSays·防御问答 · The Typhoon Season · 更新 at 2026-07-27
Will There Really Be Typhoons in December?
Many people intuitively believe that as winter sets in and temperatures drop, the typhoon season has ended. However, typhoons are not exclusive to summer. Meteorological statistics show that tropical cyclones can form in the Northwest Pacific and the South China Sea throughout the year, although their frequency and intensity vary significantly with the seasons. Typhoons do indeed form or remain active in December; while their numbers are far fewer than during the peak summer months of July to September, they are by no means rare.
According to the national standard for tropical cyclone grades issued by the China Meteorological Administration (CMA), a system is classified as a typhoon if the maximum average wind speed near the center of the lower layer reaches a certain threshold (such as tropical storm strength or higher). Historically, there have been numerous cases of typhoons affecting China's coastal regions in December and even January. Therefore, even at the end of the year, we should not let our guard down against typhoons, especially residents of coastal areas in South China, who should remain vigilant.
The Unique "Personality" of Winter Typhoons
Compared to summer typhoons, those in December often exhibit distinct characteristics. Understanding these can help us respond more effectively:
- Southerly Tracks and Concentrated Impact: Influenced by strong cold high-pressure systems and steering currents in winter, typhoons forming in December typically track further south. They mainly affect the South China Sea, Hainan, Guangdong, Guangxi, and Vietnam. They are less likely to penetrate deep inland or move north to impact the Jiangsu-Zhejiang-Shanghai region, as summer typhoons often do.
- Pronounced "Cold Air Partner" Effect: This is the most significant feature of winter typhoons. When a typhoon encounters strong cold air moving southward, the two interact in complex ways. This interaction often leads to uneven distribution of wind and rain. Even if the typhoon itself does not produce heavy precipitation, the squeezing effect of the cold air can trigger persistent heavy rainfall or strong winds in specific areas.
- Variable Intensity and Forecasting Challenges: Lower sea surface temperatures in winter are unfavorable for maintaining high-intensity typhoons. However, due to the complex environmental conditions, changes in their path and intensity can be sudden, posing challenges for forecasting.
How Should Residents Prepare Scientifically?
In the face of potential winter typhoons, the public should adopt scientific defensive measures. First, closely monitor the latest warning information released by meteorological departments. It is important to note that standards may vary by location, so please refer to local government announcements, especially regarding specific regulations on school and work suspensions. Different cities have different execution standards based on wind levels and rainfall amounts, so be sure to pay attention to local official notifications.
Second, conduct home safety checks. Winter air is dry, and if accompanied by strong winds, it is essential to clear flower pots and debris from balconies and reinforce windows and doors. If you live in low-lying areas or unsafe housing, plan evacuation routes in advance. Additionally, since winter typhoons often combine with cold air, temperatures may drop sharply. It is advisable to stay warm and prevent colds while taking precautions against wind and rain.
Finally, stockpile an adequate supply of drinking water, food, and emergency lighting tools to prepare for potential water and power outages caused by severe weather. Stay calm, do not believe or spread rumors, and obtain information through authoritative channels.
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.