Is It Safe to Take the Subway During Typhoon Rainstorms? What to Do If a Station Floods?
TyphoonSays·防御问答 · Transportation to · 更新 at 2026-07-17
The Subway's Defense Line Against Heavy Rain
Whether it is safe to take the subway during a typhoon depends on the intensity of the rainfall and the city's emergency response level. Modern urban subway systems are typically designed with comprehensive flood control and drainage facilities, such as water barriers, drainage pumps, and waterproof gates, capable of handling regular heavy rain or even rainstorms. However, risks increase significantly when facing extreme torrential rain or combined storm surges.
According to the National Standard for Tropical Cyclone Grades issued by the China Meteorological Administration (CMA), local governments initiate corresponding emergency responses based on meteorological warning signals when typhoons bring sustained heavy precipitation. For instance, when a Red Warning for Rainstorm is issued, many cities implement mandatory measures such as "suspension of classes, work, and transportation." Please note that standards may vary by location; please refer to announcements from local authorities. Therefore, around the time of a typhoon's landfall, the safest approach is to closely monitor official traffic control information. If the subway operator announces service suspensions or the closure of certain stations, please cooperate and do not attempt to force entry.
How to Respond If a Subway Station Floods
Despite protective measures, rainwater backflow into station halls or platforms can still occur in extreme situations. If you find water levels rising rapidly while inside a subway station, remain calm and follow these principles:
- Follow Instructions and Evacuate Orderly: Staff members are professionally trained to guide passengers to evacuate through the nearest exits. Do not push or shove to avoid stampede incidents.
- Stay Away from Electrical Equipment: Water conducts electricity, and accumulated water may pose leakage risks. Try to avoid areas with electrified equipment such as ticket gates, elevators, and illuminated advertisement boards. Do not touch any exposed wires or sockets.
- Seek Higher Ground: If strong currents prevent immediate exit, quickly move to higher platforms or up the stairs and wait for rescue.
- Utilize Emergency Supplies: Subway stations are usually equipped with first aid kits, emergency lighting, and other devices. Seek assistance from staff to use them if necessary.
Daily Travel and Disaster Prevention Tips
To better protect yourself during the typhoon season, consider adopting the following habits:
- Plan Your Route in Advance: Check weather forecasts and traffic conditions before leaving home, and try to avoid low-lying areas prone to flooding. If torrential rain is forecast, prioritize working from home or postponing non-urgent trips.
- Carry an Emergency Kit: Keep items such as a power bank, a small amount of drinking water, high-energy food, and first aid medicines in your bag to meet basic survival needs if trapped.
- Follow Authoritative Information: Do not trust online rumors; rely solely on official announcements from meteorological departments and traffic management authorities.
Heavy rainfall brought by typhoons is often sudden and localized. Even if the meteorological observatory has not issued the highest-level warning, severe urban waterlogging may occur in specific areas. Therefore, staying alert and flexibly adjusting your itinerary is key to ensuring safety. Remember, personal safety always takes precedence over commuting efficiency; never risk wading through floodwaters just to save time.
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.