What Should Residents in Taiwan Pay Special Attention to for Typhoon Preparedness?
TyphoonSays·防御问答 · Regional Typhoons · 更新 at 2026-10-18
Taiwan is located on the main path of typhoons in the Northwest Pacific. With its complex terrain and dense population, typhoon preparedness requires a combination of interpreting meteorological warnings, reinforcing home infrastructure, and ensuring post-disaster hygiene and safety. The following is a key disaster prevention guide for residents in Taiwan:
Accurately Interpreting Warnings and Work/School Suspension Mechanisms
Accessing official information is the first step in disaster prevention. Please closely monitor the "Marine Typhoon Warning" and "Land Typhoon Warning" issued by the CWA (Taiwan, China). Typically, a Marine Typhoon Warning is issued when the radius of gale-force winds (Level 7) is expected to affect maritime areas within 24 hours; if the typhoon is likely to strike land within 18 hours, it is upgraded to a Land and Marine Typhoon Warning. At this stage, outdoor activities should be halted, and residents should stay updated on local government announcements.
Regarding "work and school suspensions," which are of great concern to the public, according to the regulations of the Executive Yuan's Directorate-General of Personnel Administration, county and city heads have the authority to announce suspensions when any weather station observes a 10-minute average wind speed reaching Level 7 (≥14 m/s) or gusts reaching Level 8 (≥17.2 m/s), with strong winds predicted to persist. Please note that actual implementation standards and announcement times are subject to the latest announcements by local governments. Residents are advised to check the official websites of their local governments or news media before commuting to avoid getting stranded.
Home Windproofing Reinforcement and Supply Preparation
After a warning is issued and before the storm arrives, immediately execute the three steps of "Clear, Secure, and Prepare":
- Clear and Unclog: Thoroughly remove items such as flower pots and clothes hangers from balconies and terraces to prevent them from becoming dangerous "projectiles" blown by strong winds. Simultaneously, clear roof gutters and basement sump pits of leaves and debris to reduce the risk of flooding.
- Reinforce Windows and Doors: Check if window latches are secure. For older windows and doors, apply tape in an asterisk pattern to increase glass resilience, or install storm shutters. Ensure that home drainage outlets are unobstructed.
- Stockpile Supplies: Prepare at least 3 days' worth of drinking water and non-perishable food, first-aid kits, flashlights, and spare batteries. Charge power banks and mobile phones in advance, and store water in case of supply interruptions. It is recommended to make photocopies or digital scans of important documents. Park vehicles in high-ground areas or indoor garages, away from roadside trees, billboards, and flood-prone sections.
Safety Principles and Post-Disaster Hygiene
During the typhoon, the safest approach is to stay inside sturdy buildings, away from windows, floor-to-ceiling glass, and exterior walls. Strictly prohibit going to the seaside to watch waves, fishing in rivers, or entering mountainous areas, as these zones are highly prone to sudden storm surges, debris flows, or landslides. If your residence is in a low-lying area prone to flooding, move valuables to higher ground in advance and prepare sandbags for water blocking if necessary.
After the typhoon, do not let your guard down immediately. When going outside, wear non-slip rain boots and watch out for fallen power lines or loose manhole covers; do not touch unknown cables with bare hands. Since the post-disaster environment is humid and prone to mosquito breeding, be sure to empty standing water from containers to prevent vector-borne diseases such as dengue fever. If you notice structural damage to your house or strange odors, do not force entry; wait for professional assessment.
The core of disaster prevention lies in "preparing early and taking no chances." 👉 For real-time typhoon tracks and the latest warning information, please visit TyphoonSays (taifengshuo.com).
This article is original educational content from TyphoonSays. Please refer to the latest official announcements from local governments for policy standards.