When is Hong Kong's typhoon season? How many typhoons typically occur each year?
TyphoonSays·防御问答 · District of Typhoon · 更新 at 2026-07-23
Season Range: Generally from May to November
The Hong Kong Observatory considers May to October as the "watch period" for typhoons. However, June to October is actually the period with the most frequent tropical cyclone activity, with July, August, and September being the peak months. During this period, typhoon tracks often head directly toward the coastal areas of South China. Occasionally, typhoons may approach or affect Hong Kong in November, but their intensity and frequency drop significantly. In winter (December to April), the northeast monsoon suppresses tropical cyclone formation; systems in the Western Pacific tend to form further east and track further south, rarely affecting Hong Kong.
Annual Average: Approximately 5 to 6, with Significant Interannual Variability
According to long-term statistics from the Hong Kong Observatory, an average of 5 to 6 typhoons enter the 800-kilometer range around Hong Kong each year. Among these, approximately 2 to 3 are strong enough to warrant the hoisting of No. 8 or higher signal balls. However, this is merely a long-term average, and there is significant variation from year to year—some years see fewer typhoons, while others experience multiple consecutive impacts (such as in 2023). Therefore, the public should not rely solely on "historical averages" to assess risk for the current year; it is crucial to monitor real-time forecasts.
Intensity Classes and Warning Signals
According to the national standards of the China Meteorological Administration (CMA), tropical cyclones are classified into six categories based on the maximum sustained wind speed near the center: tropical depression, tropical storm, severe tropical storm, typhoon, severe typhoon, and super typhoon.
Hong Kong uses its independent "Signal Ball" system, which consists of five levels:
- No. 1 Standby Signal: A tropical cyclone may affect Hong Kong
- No. 3 Strong Wind Signal: Strong winds are generally blowing at sea level near Hong Kong
- No. 8 Gale or Storm Signal: Divided into four directions (Northwest, Southwest, Northeast, Southeast); this usually implies suspension of classes and work
- No. 9 Increasing Gale or Storm Signal: Wind force is increasing significantly
- No. 10 Hurricane Signal: The highest level, indicating extremely powerful hurricane-force winds
When Signal No. 8 or higher is in effect, the HKSAR Government will implement corresponding arrangements for suspension of classes and work. Specific details regarding affected industries and public services are subject to announcements by the HKSAR Government and relevant departments.
Practical Advice for Residents
During the typhoon season, it is advisable to keep an emergency kit at home (including flashlights, power banks, drinking water, common medications, and non-perishable food) and to inspect windows, window seals, balcony flower pots, and drainage gutters in advance. Ensure your mobile phone has access to the Hong Kong Observatory's official channels to stay updated on the latest tracks and signal changes. When Signal No. 8 is in effect, stay indoors and away from windows, and avoid going out or engaging in water activities.
Real-time typhoon tracks can be checked 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.