Are There Typhoons in Winter? Why Do Winter Typhoons Rarely Make Landfall?
TyphoonSays·防御问答 · Typhoon knowledge · 更新 at 2026-10-15
Strictly speaking, typhoons can indeed occur in winter, but the probability is extremely low. A typhoon is essentially a strong cyclonic vortex that forms over tropical or subtropical ocean surfaces. Its formation requires warm seawater to provide immense thermal energy and water vapor. In winter, solar radiation weakens and sea surface temperatures drop, making it difficult to meet this core condition. As a result, winter typhoons are not only rare but also typically weaker in intensity.
Why Is It Difficult for Winter Typhoons to Make Landfall?
Winter typhoons are rare and seldom make landfall in China, primarily due to the dual "blockade" of atmospheric circulation and geographical environment.
First is the barrier effect of cold air. In winter, China is controlled by a powerful cold high-pressure system. The cold air moving south forms a solid "wind wall" over low-latitude seas, often blocking tropical cyclones or rapidly disrupting their structure. Second is the change in steering currents. The subtropical high, which guides typhoons westward or northward in summer, shifts significantly southward and weakens in winter. This causes generated typhoons to mostly move toward the southeast, away from the continental coastline.
Additionally, vertical wind shear in the upper atmosphere is stronger in winter. This tears apart the convective structure of typhoons, making it difficult for them to maintain intensity or move further north. Therefore, even if a typhoon forms, most will turn, weaken, or dissipate over the sea. Historically, only a very few exceptional cases (such as Typhoon Irma in 1974) have affected the coastal areas of South China in winter, representing events of extremely low probability.
Should We Remain Vigilant in Winter?
Although the probability of direct typhoon landfall in winter is extremely low, this does not mean we can let our guard down completely. Residents in coastal areas of South China should pay attention to the following risks:
- Beware of the "Typhoon + Cold Air" Combined Effect: Even without a typhoon making landfall, if there is tropical cloud activity in the distance, its combination with strong cold air moving south may trigger persistent heavy rainfall, strong winds, or temperature drops, impacting transportation and agriculture.
- Monitor Warning Signals: If meteorological departments issue typhoon warnings, they should be treated as potential risks regardless of the season. Please note that regulations regarding school suspensions and work stoppages corresponding to typhoon warnings may vary by location; specific implementation standards are subject to announcements by local governments.
- Prevent Secondary Disasters: If previous rainfall has saturated the soil, even weak winds in winter may trigger geological disasters such as landslides and debris flows. It is essential to closely monitor local geological and meteorological risk alerts.
Scientific Disaster Prevention and Routine Preparedness
The best defense against typhoons is advance awareness and scientific preparation. It is advisable to continue monitoring weather developments even after the summer and autumn typhoon seasons end, as the patterns of extreme weather are undergoing subtle changes against the backdrop of climate change.
In daily life, wind protection measures should become routine: regularly clear flower pots and clutter from balconies, and check the stability of windows and doors. Keep an emergency kit at home containing flashlights, drinking water, common medications, power banks, and other supplies to ensure basic living needs can be met in emergencies. Maintaining appropriate vigilance is the best way to take responsibility for yourself and your family.
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This article is original educational content from TyphoonSays. Please refer to the latest official announcements from local governments for policy standards.