How to Prepare for a Typhoon in Japan
Navigating the Storm: A Comprehensive Guide to Typhoon Preparation for International Students in Japan
Welcome to Japan! As an international student, your journey here is filled with exciting milestones—from mastering hiragana to discovering your favorite ramen shop. However, living in Japan also means adapting to the local climate and natural phenomena. One of the most significant seasonal events you will encounter is the typhoon season.
In Japanese, a typhoon is called taifu (台風). While the word might sound intimidating, there is no need to panic. Japan is one of the most well-prepared countries in the world when it comes to natural disasters. By following local advice and preparing in advance, you can stay safe and comfortable during these storms. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about preparing for a typhoon, from securing your balcony to stocking your pantry.
1. Understanding Typhoon Season in Japan
Before diving into the preparations, it is helpful to understand what a typhoon is and when they usually occur. Typhoons are large, powerful storm systems characterized by low atmospheric pressure, strong winds, and heavy rain. They are the same phenomenon as hurricanes in the Atlantic or cyclones in the Indian Ocean.
When do they happen?
Typhoon season in Japan typically runs from May to October, with the peak activity occurring in August and September. During these months, it is common to see several typhoons approach the Japanese archipelago. While many lose strength before making landfall, some can bring significant wind and flooding.
How are they tracked?
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) tracks every typhoon and assigns it a number based on the order it formed during the year (e.g., Typhoon No. 10). Unlike other countries that name storms, Japan primarily uses this numbering system in official news broadcasts.
Wind Speed and Intensity
Understanding the strength of a typhoon helps you gauge how much preparation is needed. The table below outlines the general classification used by the JMA to describe wind intensity and its potential impact.
| Wind Speed (m/s) | Description | Potential Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 10 - 15 | Strong Breeze | Difficult to use an umbrella; trees sway significantly. |
| 15 - 20 | Very Strong Wind | Walking becomes difficult; some signs or roof tiles may come loose. |
| 20 - 30 | Violent Wind | Extremely dangerous to be outside; small trees may be uprooted. |
| 30+ | Extremely Violent | Trucks may flip over; significant damage to wooden structures. |
2. Securing Your Living Space: The Balcony and Windows
For many international students living in "mansions" (apartments) or dormitories, the balcony is the most vulnerable part of the home. During high winds, any loose item can become a dangerous projectile that could break your windows or hurt someone else.
The "Empty Balcony" Rule
As soon as a typhoon warning is issued, your priority should be to clear your balcony. Even items that seem heavy can be moved by high-velocity wind gusts.
* Laundry Poles (Saoro): Take down your laundry poles and place them on the floor of the balcony or bring them inside.
* Potted Plants: Bring all plants inside. If they are too dirty, place them in your entryway or bathtub.
* Furniture and Slippers: Move chairs, tables, and balcony slippers inside.
* Cleaning Tools: Buckets, brooms, and trash cans must be secured indoors.
Drainage Management
One often overlooked aspect of typhoon prep is the balcony drain. Heavy rain can quickly lead to flooding if your drain is clogged with leaves or dust. Ensure the drain hole is clear so that water can flow out freely. If water backs up, it could seep under your sliding door and flood your room.
Window Safety
In Japan, most modern apartment windows are designed to withstand strong winds. However, for added safety:
* Close the Shutters: If your apartment has metal shutters (amado), make sure to close and lock them.
* Lock the Windows: Simply closing the window isn't enough; ensure the crescent lock is engaged to create a tight seal against the wind.
* Stay Away from Glass: During the height of the storm, avoid sitting directly next to windows in case of flying debris.
3. Stocking Up: Food, Water, and Essentials
When a typhoon approaches, public transportation often shuts down, and shops may close early. Furthermore, there is a small possibility of power outages or water disruptions. Being prepared means you won't have to venture out into the rain to find food.
The "Rolling Stock" Method
In Japan, many people practice "rolling stock" (revolving storage). This means buying a little extra of the foods you normally eat and replacing them as you use them. This ensures you always have a 3-day supply of food that hasn't expired.
Essential Food and Water List
Aim to have at least three liters of water per person per day. For a two-day storm period, a 2-liter bottle pack (6 bottles) is a good baseline for one student.
| Category | Recommended Items | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Water | Bottled water (2L and 500ml) | For drinking and basic hygiene. |
| Instant Meals | Cup noodles, retort curry, instant rice | Easy to prepare; some can be eaten cold if necessary. |
| Dry Snacks | Energy bars, nuts, chocolate, crackers | High calorie and provides comfort during a storm. |
| Canned Goods | Tuna, yakitori, canned fruits | Long shelf life and requires no refrigeration. |
| Hydration | Electrolyte drinks (Pocari Sweat) | Important if you get sick or have no AC. |
Preparing for Power Outages
If the power goes out, your refrigerator will stay cold for a few hours if you keep the door closed. To prepare:
* Freeze Water Bottles: Fill plastic bottles 80% full with water and freeze them. They act as ice packs for your food and provide cold drinking water as they melt.
* Cook Perishables First: If you think the power might go out, eat your fresh meat and vegetables first so they don't go to waste.
4. Digital Preparedness and Information Gathering
In the digital age, information is your best tool for staying safe. However, digital tools require electricity.
Charge Everything
As soon as the typhoon is a day away, ensure all your devices are at 100%.
* Smartphones: Your primary link to emergency alerts and family.
* Power Banks: Have at least one or two fully charged portable batteries.
* Laptops: Can be used to charge your phone via USB if the power goes out.
* Flashlights: Check the batteries in your flashlights or LED lanterns. Avoid using candles as they are a significant fire hazard during high winds.
Essential Apps and Websites
Download these apps and bookmark these sites to stay updated in English:
1. NHK World-Japan: Provides real-time news and emergency alerts in English.
2. Safety Tips App: Developed specifically for international tourists and residents to provide disaster alerts.
3. NERV Disaster Prevention: An incredibly fast and detailed app for tracking weather and earthquake data.
4. Yahoo! Weather (Japan): Great for looking at the "Rain Cloud Radar" to see exactly when the eye of the storm will pass over your city.
Understanding Transportation Disruptions
Japan utilizes "Planned Suspensions" (Keikaku Unyu). This means train companies will announce 24 hours in advance if they intend to stop running trains. Do not assume you can get home later in the day; if a suspension is announced, stay home or head back early.
5. During and After the Storm: Safety First
Once the typhoon arrives, the most important rule is: Stay Indoors.
Staying Safe Inside
- Keep Calm: The sound of wind can be very loud and scary, but modern Japanese buildings are built to sway and withstand these forces.
- Avoid the "Eye" Trap: If the wind suddenly stops and the sky clears, you might be in the "eye" of the typhoon. The wind will return shortly from the opposite direction, often stronger than before. Stay inside until the official warning is lifted.
- Unplug Sensitive Electronics: If there is a lot of lightning, consider unplugging your computer or gaming console to protect them from power surges.
What NOT to do
- Do not go to the river or beach: Even if the rain doesn't look heavy in your area, upstream rain can cause rivers to flash flood. Many accidents happen because people go to "check" on the river level.
- Do not go outside to fix your balcony: If something starts blowing away, let it go. Your life is more valuable than a laundry pole or a plant.
- Do not use elevators: If there is a power flicker, you could be trapped. Use the stairs if you must move between floors.
After the Typhoon Passes
Once the JMA lifts the warnings, you can begin to assess the situation.
* Check for Damage: Inspect your windows and balcony for any cracks or debris.
* Be Careful Outside: Watch out for downed power lines, broken glass, or leaning trees.
* Check Transportation: Trains may not resume immediately as tracks must be inspected for debris. Check your train line's website before heading to the station.
* Clean the Balcony: If salt spray from the ocean or mud has covered your windows, wash them down with fresh water to prevent erosion.
Conclusion: Preparation is Peace of Mind
Living through your first typhoon in Japan is a "rite of passage" for many international students. While the wind and rain can be intense, remember that Japan is a world leader in disaster resilience. By taking a few hours to secure your balcony, stock up on some favorites like cup noodles and chocolate, and keeping your devices charged, you turn a potentially scary event into a cozy weekend indoors.
Stay safe, keep your friends updated on your status, and always follow the instructions of your local ward office or university staff. With these simple steps, you are more than ready to handle whatever the Japanese summer throws your way. Happy studying, and stay dry!