Can Beihai Be Hit Directly by Typhoons? How High Is the Risk?
TyphoonSays·防御问答 · City Typhon · 更新 at 2026-10-27
A Scientific Understanding of Typhoon Risk in Beihai
Located at the northern tip of the Beihai Gulf in Guangxi, Beihai has a distinctive geographical environment. Historical meteorological statistics show that the city is indeed frequently affected by typhoons, but the public should view the concept of a “direct hit” rationally. According to the CMA and historical records, because the Beihai Gulf is a semi-enclosed bay, typhoons entering the area often undergo friction over land or travel a long distance over the sea, causing them to lose some of their intensity. Therefore, compared with coastal Guangdong or eastern Hainan, Beihai has a relatively low probability of a direct landfall by a super typhoon (Category 16 or above).
However, a “low probability” does not necessarily mean a “low risk.” Even if the eye of a typhoon does not make landfall directly in Beihai, the combined effects of its outer spiral rainbands, the monsoon trough, and terrain-induced uplift can still easily bring prolonged torrential rain and violent winds to the city. In addition, different meteorological agencies may make slight variations in their forecasts for the storm’s track and intensity. It is advisable to consult information released by multiple authoritative agencies rather than relying on a single source.
Analysis of the Main Disaster Risks
The risks of typhoon-related secondary disasters in Beihai are concentrated in the following three areas and require particular attention:
- Storm surges and seawater intrusion: This is the most distinctive typhoon hazard in Beihai. Because the local terrain is low and flat and the coastline is highly indented, strong typhoon winds can push seawater toward the shore. If this coincides with a period of astronomical high tide, severe storm surges may occur, causing seawater to intrude into low-lying coastal areas and threatening the safety of seawalls and embankments.
- Urban flooding caused by extreme rainfall: Rainfall brought by typhoons is often intense and prolonged. Under extreme rainfall conditions, urban drainage systems may face immense pressure, with water accumulating on low-lying roads, in underground garages, and in underpasses, seriously disrupting traffic and potentially threatening lives.
- Strong winds and related hazards: Although a typhoon may weaken after entering the Beihai Gulf, its gusts can still reach Beaufort Force 10–12. These winds are strong enough to break trees, destroy outdoor billboards, and send objects falling from height, posing a direct threat to pedestrians and vehicles.
Scientific Prevention and Emergency Response
When facing a typhoon threat, sound defensive measures are essential for reducing losses. First, closely monitor the warning signals issued by the local meteorological station. China’s typhoon warning system has four levels: blue, yellow, orange, and red, with each successive color indicating a higher degree of danger. When a yellow or higher-level warning is issued, outdoor group activities should be suspended. A red warning usually means that urgent measures such as school closures and work stoppages are needed. For specific arrangements regarding school and workplace closures and the emergency response level, follow the latest notices issued by the local government and education authorities.
Second, take appropriate precautions at home and for personal safety:
- Remove potential hazards: Clear flower pots and other objects from balconies in advance, and reinforce doors and windows to prevent falling objects from causing injuries.
- Stock essential supplies: Keep at least three days’ worth of drinking water, ready-to-eat food, and commonly used medicines, and prepare flashlights, power banks, and other emergency supplies in case of power or internet outages.
- Seek safety in time: Residents of low-lying areas, dilapidated buildings, or locations identified as geological hazard sites should closely monitor community notices and, if necessary, evacuate to safe shelters in cooperation with government arrangements.
Finally, do not rush outdoors after a typhoon has passed. Watch out for broken power lines, fallen trees, and contaminated standing water to avoid electrocution or infectious diseases. Remaining calm and following official guidance is the most reliable way to respond to a typhoon. Real-time typhoon tracks can be checked on TyphoonSays (taifengshuo.com).
This article is original educational content from TyphoonSays. Please refer to the latest official announcements from local governments for policy standards.