What Are the Standards for School and Work Closures During Typhoons? A Guide to Local Warning Signals
At what typhoon warning level are schools and workplaces closed? Mainland China uses color-coded warnings, while Hong Kong uses the Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal system. This article summarizes the general standards for closures across different regions.
Mainland China: Based Primarily on Typhoon Warning Signals
In most parts of China, arrangements for school and work closures are linked to meteorological warning signals. The general guidelines are as follows (subject to specific announcements by local governments):
| Warning Signal | General Response Measures |
|---|---|
| Blue Typhoon Warning | Caution advised; generally no school closures |
| Yellow Typhoon Warning | Kindergartens and primary/secondary schools closed in some areas |
| Orange Typhoon Warning | Primary/secondary schools and kindergartens closed in most areas |
| Red Typhoon Warning | Implementation of the "Five Stoppages": stop classes, work, production, transport, and business operations |
Provinces frequently affected by typhoons, such as Guangdong, Zhejiang, Fujian, and Hainan, have mostly established clear "Guidelines for School Closures under Typhoon and Rainstorm Warning Signals." For example, Guangdong Province stipulates that during Yellow, Orange, or Red Typhoon Warnings, primary and secondary schools and kindergartens will automatically suspend classes without waiting for further notification.
Hong Kong: Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal System
- No. 8 Signal: Schools close; most institutions cease work. The Hong Kong Stock Exchange historically suspended trading during typhoons (but has maintained trading during typhoons since September 2024).
- No. 9 and No. 10 Signals: Comprehensive cessation of work and classes; residents are advised to stay indoors.
Key Tips
- "Automatic School Closure" Mechanism: In places like Guangdong, the issuance of a warning signal serves as the directive for school closure. Parents can keep their children at home upon seeing the signal without waiting for official notice from the school.
- School Closure Does Not Mean a Holiday: Under a Red Warning, even if students have already arrived at school, emergency care protocols will be activated, and students will not be allowed to go home on their own.
- Encountering Warnings During Commute: Many regions mandate that employers suspend work during Red Warnings. Absence due to typhoon conditions is not considered absenteeism, and wages should be paid as usual (subject to local regulations).
Please refer to official notifications from local governments, education bureaus, and meteorological departments. This article is for reference only.