Macau Typhoon Guide: Season, Signals & Travel Tips

Macau can experience a strong tropical storms and typhoons, even during the warmer months.

So, if you are planning a trip to Macau on school holidays, it is compulsary to know what typhoons most likely, when it is occur, what are the different typhoons signals mean and what to do if a storm arrives during your holiday.

In this Trip.com guide, we've rounded up the most common typhoon-related questions about traveling to Macau to walk you through Macau's typhoon season, how to handle flight cancellations, and the answers to the questions travelers care about most.

When Is Typhoon Season in Macau?

Macau's typhoon season usually occur from May to November, with the higher risk period usually falling during the summer and early autumn.

It has its own tropical cyclone warning system, with signals that range from No 1 to No 10.

When a stronger typhoon approaches, flights, ferries, public transport, attractions and other outdoor activities can be affected, so if you are planning to travel to Macau on July, August and September, it is important months to watch as the tropical cyclones can bring strong winds, heavy rain, rough seas and flooding.

But, it does not mean that you should avoid Macau during these months as several days still can be suitable for sightseeing but it is just to be careful as the typhoons are might be occur.

Before flying, you should check the weather forecast first especially if you have flights, ferries trips or outdoor activities booked.

Macau Typhoon Signals Explained

Macau uses a numbered tropical cyclone warning system.

The signal indicates the potential impact of tropical cyclone and helps the residents and visitors to decided of what precautions to take.

What Happens in Macau During a Typhoon?

A typhoon can affect almost every part of a Macau trip.

So, you need to be aware of:

Flights May Be Delayed or Cancelled

Strong winds and heavy rain may affect many flights at Macau International Airport.

So, if you are flying during the typhoon season, you should check your airline and airport updates regularly.

You can also check the government announcement of update of weather.

In addition, you should avoid heading to the airport too early based on your original schedule as the transport conditiions can also be change during a strong storm.

You should contact Trip.com customer service for a changes or cancellation if you are booking a flight through the platform.

Ferry Services May Be Suspended

Many travellers that are visiting Macau from Hong Kong by ferry should aware that the sea conditions can become unsafe during a typhoon.

The ferry services might be suspended when a stronger typhoon signals are in force, so if you are travelling between Hong Kong and Macau, you should check the latest operator announcement before travelling.

Public Transport Can Be Affected

Buses, metro and other public transport may be experience of changes or interruptions during severe weather.

Even a service is technically operating, getting around can take longer because of heavy rain, flooding or strong winds.

Outdoor Attractions May Close

Outdoor attractions in Macau also can be affected because of the temporary closed for safety reasons.

This can include Macau's historic landmarks, outdoor observation areas, parks and waterfront areas, walking trails and outdoor entertainment.

What Should You Do If a Typhoon Hits Macau?

If a typhoon approach when you are in Macau, the safest option is usually to stay indoors and be safe then always monitor official updates from government.

Check the Typhoon Signal

Keep an eye on the latest tropical cyclone warning from the Macao Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau (SMG).

Signal No. 1 is an early warning, while higher signals indicate increasingly dangerous conditions.

Stay Inside During Stronger Signals

When stronger signals are issued, avoid unnecessary travel.

Your hotel is generally a better place to wait out the storm than walking around the city.

Keep away from windows and exposed outdoor areas, particularly when winds become strong.

Avoid the Waterfront

Macau's waterfront areas can become dangerous during severe weather because of strong winds, waves and flooding.

Avoid walking along the coast simply to take photos of the storm.

Keep Your Phone Charged

A fully charged phone is useful during bad weather.

You may need it for:

• Airline updates
• Hotel announcements
• Transport information
• Weather warnings
• Maps
• Emergency communication

Keep Some Food and Water in Your Room

If a strong typhoon is forecast, it is sensible to have some basic food and drinks available.

You do not need to stock up excessively.

Simple items such as bottled water, snacks and ready-to-eat food can be useful if you do not want to leave your hotel during the storm.

Is Macau Safe During a Typhoon?

Macau has established tropical cyclone warning and safety procedures but a strong typhoons can still create a dangerous conditions so you must follow the official typhoon signal and safety instructions rather than continue to your normal itinerary and plans.

You should not cancel your Macau trip during the typhoon seasons as you might does not experience a major storm but if you happened to see a higher typhoon signal during your trip, you should take seriously.

Hence, you can spend your time at indoor attractions such as Macau casinos, shopping malls, museum and many more.