By / MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team
Summer is the peak season for typhoons every year. Over the past few decades, the earliest typhoons have occurred in April, and the latest as late as December, but they are most active in July, August, and September. Taiwan's geographic location places it directly in the path of typhoons and is often a turning point for them, so it frequently faces typhoon threats. To avoid typhoon disasters, here are the essential preparations you should make.
Water is a must-have for typhoon preparedness (Image / unsplash)
1. Water
Water is the most fundamental necessity for survival. Not only should you stock up on drinking water, but also on general-use water. During typhoons, it’s inconvenient to go out and there may even be water outages. Without stored water at home, things can get very difficult—whether for drinking or cleaning, it’s extremely important.
2. Dry Rations
In addition to water, the most important thing is food. When a typhoon strikes, you should stock up on sufficient dry rations and food, such as biscuits, instant noodles, canned goods, etc. While keeping an eye on the latest typhoon updates, make sure you don’t go hungry. These supplies can also serve as emergency rations if needed.
Preparing dry rations for typhoons (Image / cu_official)
3. First aid kit and common medications
Typhoon weather brings strong winds and heavy rain. To prepare for dangers and disasters, it’s crucial to have a first aid kit ready in advance. If you or your family members have chronic illnesses, it’s also recommended to prepare common medications in case you can’t access life-saving drugs when needed.
4. Radio and flashlight
Power outages are possible during typhoons. When you’re unable to get external news, a traditional radio is the best means of communication. A flashlight can also provide lighting, reducing the risk of accidents—but make sure to have spare batteries on hand in case they run out.
LED flashlights have a low failure rate, so you don’t have to worry about bulbs burning out easily during use (Image / Muji)
5. Swiss Army knife and whistle
Typhoon weather can lead to unexpected situations like flooding or landslides. If you’re trapped or someone is in danger, having small tools like a Swiss Army knife can help with self-rescue. A whistle can also be used to call for help, allowing rescuers to locate you as quickly as possible.
6. Power bank and batteries
Power outages are common during typhoons. In addition to preparing devices like radios and flashlights—which require batteries—it’s wise to stock up on dry-cell batteries in advance. You might also want to prepare a power bank for charging electronic devices.
Power bank (Image / New Taipei City Police Department, Sanxia Precinct)
7. Supplies for children
If you have children at home, it’s also advisable to prepare baby essentials in advance, including diapers, formula, etc.
8. Rain gear
You never know what might happen during a typhoon—you might need to go out at any time, or there could be flooding at home. Having complete rain gear can offer an extra layer of protection.
Typhoon-ready rain gear (Photo provided by Afternoon Tea)
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