Introduction
Typhoons are among the most powerful and destructive weather systems on Earth. Every year, several typhoons develop in the western Pacific Ocean, affecting countries like Japan, China, the Philippines, Taiwan, and South Korea. Among these, Typhoon No. 4 refers to the fourth named typhoon of the Pacific typhoon season. In this article, we’ll provide general typhoon information, explain how typhoons are classified, and take a closer look at the significance of Typhoon No. 4.
What is a Typhoon?
A typhoon is a type of tropical cyclone that forms in the northwest Pacific Ocean, between 100°E and 180°E longitude. In other parts of the world, similar storms are called hurricanes (Atlantic, Northeast Pacific) or cyclones (Indian Ocean, South Pacific).
Typhoons are categorized based on their wind speeds:
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Tropical Depression: Wind speeds less than 62 km/h (39 mph)
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Tropical Storm: Wind speeds between 62–88 km/h (39–54 mph)
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Severe Tropical Storm: Wind speeds between 89–117 km/h (55–73 mph)
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Typhoon: Wind speeds exceeding 118 km/h (74 mph)
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Super Typhoon: Wind speeds over 185 km/h (115 mph) (Japan Meteorological Agency or JMA classification)
Typhoon Numbering System Explained: What is Typhoon No. 4?
In Japan and several other East Asian countries, typhoons are often identified by numbers in sequence as they occur throughout the year. The numbering starts fresh every January 1st. Therefore, Typhoon No. 4 simply refers to the fourth typhoon of the year in that region. For example:
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Typhoon No. 1: The first typhoon of the season
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Typhoon No. 4: The fourth typhoon of the season
Each typhoon also receives an international name, assigned from a rotating list maintained by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). For example, Typhoon No. 4 in a given year might be internationally known as "Typhoon Ewiniar" or "Typhoon Lupit," depending on the naming list rotation.
General Typhoon Information: Formation and Lifecycle
1. Formation
Typhoons typically form over warm ocean waters when the sea surface temperature exceeds 26.5°C (80°F). As warm, moist air rises, it creates a low-pressure area that draws in surrounding air, forming powerful winds and thunderstorms.
2. Development Stages
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Tropical disturbance
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Tropical depression
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Tropical storm
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Typhoon
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Super typhoon (in some cases)
3. Dissipation
Typhoons lose their strength when they move over colder water or land, cutting off their moisture supply.
Historical Impact of Typhoon No. 4
While the intensity and damage caused by Typhoon No. 4 vary from year to year, it frequently occurs during the peak typhoon season (July to September). Past Typhoon No. 4 storms have sometimes caused significant rainfall, flooding, and wind damage across East Asia.
For example:
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Typhoon No. 4 of 2023 (Typhoon Talim): Brought heavy rains and strong winds to Okinawa and parts of China.
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Typhoon No. 4 of 2018 (Typhoon Maria): A super typhoon that impacted Taiwan and eastern China, causing widespread power outages and structural damage.
Safety Tips During a Typhoon
When a typhoon, such as Typhoon No. 4, approaches, follow these safety tips:
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Stay Informed: Monitor updates from the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) or local weather services.
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Secure Property: Reinforce windows, bring in outdoor furniture, and prepare for power outages.
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Evacuation Readiness: Know your evacuation routes and shelter locations.
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Stock Essentials: Have water, food, batteries, and a first aid kit ready.
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Stay Indoors: Avoid going outside during the storm.
Typhoon Preparedness and Climate Change
Climate change is intensifying tropical cyclones worldwide, leading to stronger storms and increased rainfall. Each year's typhoon season, including events like Typhoon No. 4, serves as a reminder of the importance of disaster preparedness and resilient infrastructure in typhoon-prone regions.
Conclusion
Understanding general typhoon information and staying prepared for storms like Typhoon No. 4 is essential for residents and travelers in the western Pacific region. As typhoons become more intense due to climate change, vigilance, preparedness, and timely response remain key to minimizing damage and protecting lives.
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