How Many Levels Are There in Typhoon Warning Signals? What Do Blue, Yellow, Orange, and Red Mean?
TyphoonSays·防御问答 · Early warning signals · 更新 at 2026-09-29
Understanding the "Four-Color" Signals: The Logic Behind Typhoon Warning Levels
Typhoon warning signals issued by China's meteorological departments are established based on the national standard "Classification of Tropical Cyclones." They are divided into four levels, from low to high: Blue, Yellow, Orange, and Red. This is not merely a change in color but an escalating instruction for defensive actions. Although specific issuance thresholds may vary slightly across different coastal provinces and cities due to geographical differences, the core logic remains consistent: the deeper the color, the stronger the wind and rain impact, the higher the danger coefficient, and the more urgent the public response required—progressing from "stay alert" to "emergency evacuation." Accurately identifying these signals is the first line of defense for protecting personal safety during typhoon season.
Detailed Breakdown and Action Guidelines
Blue Warning (Attention Level): Expected to be affected by a tropical cyclone within 24 hours, with average winds reaching force 6 or above, or gusts reaching force 8 or above. At this stage, the typhoon is still at a certain distance, but risks are emerging.
- Action RecommendationsClosely monitor weather updates; check and reinforce doors and windows; clear flower pots, debris, and other items prone to falling from balconies and window sills to prevent objects falling from heights.
Yellow Warning (Defense Level): Expected to be affected by a tropical cyclone within 24 hours, with average winds reaching force 8 or above, or gusts reaching force 10 or above. Wind and rain intensify significantly, increasing outdoor risks.
- Action Recommendations: Minimize non-essential outings; avoid staying near billboards, large trees, or temporary structures; suspend open-air collective activities and dangerous outdoor operations such as working at heights; coastal and marine work units should prepare for wind protection.
Orange Warning (Emergency Defense Level): Expected to be affected by a tropical cyclone within 12 hours, with average winds reaching force 10 or above, or gusts reaching force 12 or above. Destructive power increases significantly, requiring high vigilance.
- Action Recommendations: People in dangerous areas should evacuate to safe places promptly; kindergartens, nurseries, and primary and secondary schools usually suspend classes. Please note that specific execution standards for school and work suspensions may vary by location. Always refer to the latest notifications issued by local governments and education departments.
Red Warning (Special Emergency Defense Level): Expected to be affected by a tropical cyclone within 6 hours, or already affected, with average winds reaching force 12 or above, or gusts reaching force 14 or above. This is the highest level of warning, highly likely to cause severe disasters.
- Action Recommendations: Except for special industries, general suspension of work, business, markets, and classes is implemented. Residents should stay in the safest room indoors, away from windows, and must not go out casually. In case of emergency, seek help while ensuring personal safety. For specific arrangements regarding work and school suspensions, strictly follow the official guidelines issued by the local government.
Dynamic Monitoring and Scientific Risk Avoidance
Warning signals are static standards, while typhoon paths and intensity are dynamically changing. Therefore, relying solely on the warning color is insufficient; real-time path tracking is necessary to assess risk. Regardless of the warning level, stocking up on adequate drinking water, food, and emergency medicines, and keeping mobile phones fully charged, are basic and essential preparations. When high-level warnings are in effect, overcome any luck-pushing mentality and strictly obey government directives. As the typhoon approaches, delayed information can pose fatal risks. It is recommended to obtain the latest information through authoritative channels. 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.