Which Typhoons Have Caused the Most Severe Impact on Fujian in History?
TyphoonSays·防御问答 · District of Typhoon · 更新 at 2026-07-22
Located on the southeastern coast of China, Fujian features complex terrain and faces the Pacific Ocean directly, making it a major area for typhoon landfalls and impacts throughout history. Looking back, several typhoons remain memorable due to their immense destructive power and wide-ranging impact. Understanding the experiences of these "predecessors" helps us scientifically recognize typhoon risks and better prepare for disaster prevention.
Century-Defining Typhoons: 1999's Typhoon Dan (9909) and 2006's Typhoon Saomai
In the history of typhoon defense in Fujian, Typhoon Dan (No. 9 of 1999) is an unavoidable name. It made landfall near Xiamen during an astronomical high tide, triggering severe storm surges. Large areas of Xiamen's urban center were flooded, and infrastructure suffered serious damage. This typhoon still leaves many long-time residents of Xiamen with lingering fear. It serves as a warning that the hazards brought by typhoons are not just wind, but also water—especially when strong winds coincide with high tides, the risk in low-lying coastal areas increases exponentially.
Another event worth remembering is Super Typhoon Saomai (No. 8 of 2006). It made landfall at the border between Cangnan, Zhejiang, and Fuding, Fujian. With extremely strong central winds, it delivered a devastating blow to eastern Fujian. Saomai was characterized by its high intensity, fast movement, and concentrated wind and rain, leading to the collapse of numerous houses and the destruction of many boats. According to the National Standard for Tropical Cyclone Grades issued by the China Meteorological Administration (CMA), super typhoons (with maximum sustained winds near the center ≥ Level 16) possess extreme destructive power that ordinary buildings cannot withstand. Therefore, early evacuation is key to saving lives.
Recent Devastation: 2016's Typhoon Meranti and 2023's Typhoon Doksuri
Entering the second decade of the 21st century, the impact of typhoons remains severe. In 2016, Typhoon Meranti (No. 14) struck Xiamen head-on as a super typhoon, becoming one of the strongest tropical cyclones globally that year. The entire city of Xiamen saw fallen trees, power outages, and shattered glass curtain walls, causing urban functions to come to a standstill. This disaster highlighted the vulnerability of urban operational systems under extreme weather conditions and drove subsequent engineering upgrades, including improvements to urban landscaping tree species and the reinforcement of power facilities.
In 2023, Typhoon Doksuri (No. 5) took a rare northward path deep into the inland. Although it made landfall in Jinjiang, Fujian, as a severe typhoon, the moisture it carried combined with cold air from the north, triggering extreme rainfall in North China and other regions. Locally in Fujian, its fierce winds and heavy rains also caused serious agricultural losses and urban waterlogging. This indicates that modern typhoon defense must not only focus on wind strength at the point of landfall but also remain vigilant against secondary disasters caused by residual circulation, such as landslides and basin-wide flooding.
Scientific Response: From Warning to Action
In light of these historical lessons, the public should establish a scientific awareness of defense. When meteorological departments issue yellow, orange, or red typhoon warnings, it means the risk is escalating. Typically, when a red warning is in effect, primary and secondary schools and kindergartens will suspend classes, and employers should arrange work stoppages based on the situation. Please note that standards may vary by location, so refer to announcements from local governments.
Residents are advised to take the following preparations before a typhoon arrives:
- Clear Balconies: Remove flower pots and miscellaneous items to prevent objects from falling from heights.
- Stockpile Supplies: Prepare at least three days' worth of drinking water, non-perishable food, and emergency lighting equipment.
- Monitor Information: Do not trust rumors; obtain the latest track and warning information through official channels.
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.