What are the criteria for a super typhoon? What wind speed qualifies as a super typhoon?
TyphoonSays·防御问答 · Typhoon knowledge · 更新 at 2026-10-08
Core Metrics: What is a "Super Typhoon"?
In the meteorological classification system for tropical cyclones, "super typhoon" represents the pinnacle of destructive power. According to the Chinese National Standard "Grades of Tropical Cyclones" (GB/T 19201-2006), a tropical cyclone is classified as a super typhoon when the maximum average wind speed near the center of its lower layer reaches or exceeds 51.0 meters/second.
To understand this value more intuitively, we can convert it as follows:
- Speed: Equivalent to 184 kilometers/hour or higher;
- Beaufort Scale: Corresponds to force 16 or higher.
It is important to distinguish that the "maximum average wind speed" in meteorological observations usually refers to the average over 2 or 10 minutes. However, the "instantaneous gusts" are often more destructive during actual disasters. Under the influence of a super typhoon, instantaneous gusts often far exceed force 16. The resulting wind pressure is sufficient to shatter ordinary glass, dismantle billboards, and even threaten reinforced concrete structures. Therefore, do not mistake "average wind speed" for the upper limit of wind force; the actual perceived wind strength is often much more severe.
Fatal Risks: More Than Just Strong Winds
The hazards of a super typhoon are compound and are by no means simply about "strong winds." Its core risks are mainly reflected in the following three dimensions:
- Extreme Wind Damage: Sustained wind speeds above 51 meters/second can easily uproot large trees, overturn vehicles, and cause simple structures to collapse. Falling objects from heights become one of the main causes of death in urban environments.
- Storm Surge Superposition: Strong winds push seawater toward the shore. If this coincides with an astronomical high tide, it can trigger devastating storm surges, causing severe flooding in coastal areas.
- Extreme Rainfall: Super typhoons often carry astonishing amounts of water vapor, easily triggering secondary disasters such as flash floods and mudslides within a short period.
Additionally, the public often mistakenly believes that the calmness when the "typhoon eye" passes is a signal of safety, but it is actually extremely dangerous. After the typhoon eye passes, the wind direction will suddenly reverse, and the wind force will instantly intensify. Going outside at this time makes one highly susceptible to accidents.
Defense Guide: Shift from "Defense" to "Avoidance"
When facing a super typhoon, ordinary reinforcement measures are difficult to withstand its power. The core strategy should shift from "defense" to "avoidance." When meteorological departments issue a Red Typhoon Warning, it indicates an extremely high disaster risk. Please strictly implement the following measures:
- Strictly Stay Indoors: Except for emergency evacuation, going out is strictly prohibited. Stay in the safest room indoors, away from windows facing the wind. If necessary, reinforce glass with tape in an asterisk pattern or lay thick curtains to prevent flying debris.
- Supply Reserve: Stock up on at least 3 days' worth of drinking water, non-perishable food, common medications, and emergency lighting equipment in advance. Check electrical circuits and gas safety to prevent secondary accidents.
- Comply with Controls: Follow local government instructions regarding school suspensions, work stoppages, and transport halts. Please note that specific standards for school and work suspensions, as well as traffic control measures, are subject to the latest announcements by the local government. Do not take chances by forcing your commute.
In the face of extreme weather, information is life. Please remain calm, obtain the latest updates through authoritative channels, and do not believe or spread rumors.
Real-time typhoon tracks can be queried at TaifengSays (taifengshuo.com)
This article is original educational content from TyphoonSays. Please refer to the latest official announcements from local governments for policy standards.