What Does a Category 12 Typhoon Mean? How Much Damage Can It Cause to Trees and Buildings?
TyphoonSays·防御问答 · Typhoon knowledge · 更新 at 2026-08-06
How Fast Is the Wind Speed of a Category 12 Typhoon?
When we hear "Category 12 typhoon," images of raging winds often come to mind, but just how strong is it? According to the national standard "Tropical Cyclone Grades" issued by the China Meteorological Administration (CMA), a maximum wind force of Level 12 near the center means the maximum average wind speed near the surface center is between 32.7 meters/second and 36.9 meters/second. Converted into kilometers per hour, a unit more familiar to most people, this equals speeds of 118 km/h to 133 km/h.
To give you a more intuitive sense, imagine a sedan driving at normal speed on a highway; its speed falls roughly within this range. When such wind speeds persist, they are no longer a gentle breeze but a physical impact with immense kinetic energy. In the meteorological warning system, this usually corresponds to a Yellow or Orange Typhoon Warning Signal (depending on the overall intensity of the typhoon). At this stage, outdoor environments become extremely dangerous; it is extremely difficult for ordinary pedestrians to stand upright, and they may even be blown over by the wind.
Substantial Damage to Trees and Buildings
Level 12 wind marks the beginning of "hurricane-force" winds, and its destructive power should not be underestimated. It primarily manifests as physical destruction of natural elements and man-made facilities.
For trees, Level 12 gales pose a huge test. Although wind resistance varies among tree species, under such wind conditions:
- Large trees with dense foliage may suffer extensive branch breakage and severe canopy damage;
- Trees with shallow root systems or those in loose soil are highly prone to being uprooted or tilting and collapsing;
- If street trees are blown down, they not only block traffic but may also snap power lines or crush vehicles, causing secondary disasters.
The damage to buildings and facilities is equally significant:
- Simple structures: Sheds, temporary hoardings, billboards, etc., are easily torn apart or blown away, becoming "flying projectiles" in the air;
- Windows and doors: If windows and doors are not reinforced or the glass quality is average, they may shatter under wind pressure, leading to rainwater flooding indoors;
- Falling objects from heights: Flower pots, clothes drying racks, and other items on balconies, if not stored indoors, can be instantly blown off, posing a fatal threat to pedestrians and vehicles below;
- Power and communications: Utility poles may tilt, and cables may be severed by broken branches, leading to localized power outages or communication disruptions.
How Should Residents Respond Scientifically?
When facing a Category 12 typhoon, the core principle is "avoidance" rather than "resistance." Specific criteria for school and work suspensions may vary by location; please refer to announcements from local authorities. However, under any circumstances, the following measures are universal safety guidelines:
- Strictly avoid going outdoors: Unless there is an urgent need to seek shelter, do not leave sturdy buildings. Do not stay under trees, beneath billboards, or next to dilapidated houses.
- Clear balconies: Move flower pots, clothing, and other items prone to falling from balconies and windowsills indoors in advance. Check and reinforce windows and doors; if necessary, apply tape in a character (m) pattern to prevent glass shards from scattering if broken.
- Stockpile supplies: Prepare at least 2-3 days' worth of drinking water, ready-to-eat food, common medications, as well as emergency lighting tools such as flashlights and power banks, in case of water and power outages.
- Follow official information: Do not trust rumors. Closely monitor the latest track and warning information released by meteorological departments.
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.