What Should Macau Residents Pay Special Attention to for Typhoon Preparedness?
TyphoonSays·防御问答 · District of Typhoon · 更新 at 2026-07-23
Warning Signals and Suspension of Classes and Work
The tropical cyclone warning signal system used in the Macau Special Administrative Region is not entirely consistent with the classification methods of mainland meteorological agencies. When the Macao Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau (SMG) hoists Signal No. 1, it indicates that the area may be affected by a tropical cyclone within the next 48 hours. Residents should start monitoring official updates and clear debris from balconies and windowsills that could be blown away by strong winds. Signal No. 3 indicates that strong winds will affect the area within 24 hours, with average wind speeds reaching 41–62 km/h. At this stage, passenger ferry terminals and some marine operations usually suspend or adjust services, and primary/secondary schools and kindergartens may announce class suspensions following guidelines from the Education and Youth Development Bureau.
Signal No. 8 or higher (commonly known as "hoisting Signal No. 8") means wind forces are intensifying further; buses, taxis, the Light Rapid Transit (LRT), and passenger ferries will gradually cease operations, and some entertainment venues may close. Signal No. 9 indicates that wind forces will continue to strengthen, while Signal No. 10 means the area is already experiencing hurricane-force winds (sustained wind speeds exceeding 118 km/h). According to the China Meteorological Administration (CMA) national standard for "Tropical Cyclone Grades," this corresponds to "typhoon" intensity or higher. At this time, residents must strictly remain in safe indoor locations, staying away from doors, windows, and glass. Standards may vary by region; please refer to local government announcements. Residents can check real-time wind changes and signal adjustments through the SMG website, TV stations, radio broadcasts, and channels like "TyphoonSays."
Storm Surge and Precautions for Low-Lying Areas
Macau has low-lying terrain, and coastal areas—especially Inner Harbour, Patane, Barra, and Fai Chi Kei—have historically suffered severe flooding from storm surges. When a typhoon approaches and coincides with high tides, seawater backflow may flood roads, enter ground-floor residences, and inundate parking lots. Residents living or working in low-lying areas are advised to:
- Move vehicles to higher ground in advance and avoid parking in underground garages;
- Stack sandbags or install waterproof barriers at main entrances and basement entries;
- Elevate electrical appliances and valuables, moving them to higher floors if possible;
- Monitor evacuation instructions issued by the Civil Protection Operations Centre, and proceed in an orderly manner to nearby shelters (usually located in public facilities such as gyms and schools) when ordered to evacuate.
Home Protection and Supply Preparation
Strong winds may dislodge billboards, scaffolding, and trees, and window glass is at risk of breaking due to sudden pressure changes. It is recommended to complete the following tasks before Signal No. 8 is hoisted:
- Reinforce glass windows with tape in a "rice" character or "X" pattern (especially necessary for old wooden windows);
- Close all doors and windows tightly, lower blinds, and stay away from windows;
- Bring in or secure potted plants, debris, and clothes drying racks on balconies, windowsills, and rooftops;
- Prepare flashlights, spare batteries, power banks, a first-aid kit, and approximately three days' worth of drinking water and non-perishable food;
- Check household electrical circuits and unplug unnecessary appliances if necessary.
Travel and Emergency Reminders
Avoid going out during typhoons, especially do not go to seaside areas, embankments, piers, or mountainous regions. Do not linger under temporary structures, construction scaffolding, or large billboards. Heavy rain may cause landslides and road water accumulation.If you must go out, stay away from live electrical facilities such as power lines, transformers, and streetlights, and avoid wading through water to prevent electric shock or falling into hidden manholes.
In case of emergency, dial 999 for fire or ambulance services; for civil protection assistance, contact the SAR Civil Protection Operations Centre. Do not let your guard down after the storm passes: Before going out, watch out for fallen power lines, loose signs, and hidden potholes under standing water. Do not immediately return to damaged buildings; wait for professionals to confirm safety before entering for cleanup.
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.