Are High-Rise Apartments Vulnerable to Typhoons? A Guide to Handling Wind, Sway, and Water in Supertall Buildings

Wind speeds are significantly higher at elevation than at ground level. While slight swaying of supertall buildings during typhoons is part of their normal design, residents on upper floors face real issues such as curtain wall glass integrity, water leakage around windows and doors, and elevator suspensions.

The Higher the Building, the Stronger the Wind

Wind speed increases with height: when wind force reaches Level 10 at a height of 10 meters above ground, it may exceed Level 12 at an altitude of 100 meters. Residents on higher floors experience far greater wind pressure than those on lower floors during typhoons, which is why the howling sound at high-rise windows is often more terrifying.

Is Building Sway Normal?

Yes. Modern high-rise buildings are designed with sufficient wind resistance according to regulations. A top-floor sway of several tens of centimeters during a strong typhoon falls within the allowable design range (known in structural engineering as "inter-story drift" control). Some supertall buildings are also equipped with tuned mass dampers (such as the "building stabilizer" in Shanghai Tower) to actively reduce sway.

There is no need to panic if you feel swaying. However, if abnormalities occur, such as cracking walls or increasingly loud unusual noises, report them to property management and relevant authorities immediately.

Typhoon Checklist for High-Rise Residents

• Curtain Walls and Windows: Due to high wind pressure on upper floors, check window latches and sealing strips. For residences with glass curtain walls, pay attention to the property management's annual curtain wall inspection records.
• Leakage Preparedness: Rainwater driven by strong winds can be forced "horizontally" through gaps in window frames. Keep towels ready on windowsills and move valuables away from windows.
• Clear Balconies: Falling objects from high altitudes carry immense kinetic energy; a flower pot dropping from the 30th floor can be fatal. This is a matter of responsibility toward pedestrians below.
• Elevator Contingency Plan: Typhoons may cause power outages and elevator suspensions. Stock up on supplies in advance to reduce the need to go downstairs. Do not use elevators during the peak intensity of the typhoon due to the risk of getting trapped.
• Vehicles: Move cars out of underground garages early (in cities prone to flooding) or park them away from the fall zone of building curtain walls.

Safest Locations Within Your Apartment

Rooms located away from exterior windows: interior corridors, bathrooms, and entry foyers. Do not stand close to floor-to-ceiling windows to "enjoy the view" or take photos during the peak of the typhoon. Curtain wall glass carries a risk of shattering under extreme wind pressure combined with flying debris. There have been numerous cases of high-rise glass bursting during past typhoons.

Venturi Effect

The "canyon" formed between two tall buildings can double wind speed (Venturi effect). Walking through passages between high-rises or around building corners is particularly dangerous during typhoons, making this a common scenario for urban typhoon-related casualties.