How to Deal with Natural Disasters (Typhoons, Earthquakes) - Safety Guide for Foreign Tourists
When traveling in China, typhoons and earthquakes are two major natural disasters that you might encounter. The following detailed guide is provided from three aspects: pre-trip preparation, response measures, and post-disaster handling, combined with practical tools and contact information to ensure your safety.
I. Pre-Trip Preparation
- Understand Destination Risks
- Typhoon: Southeast coastal areas of China (such as Guangdong, Fujian, Zhejiang) experience frequent typhoons from July to September.
- Earthquake: Sichuan, Yunnan, Xinjiang, and other regions have relatively frequent seismic activities.
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It is recommended to check real-time weather and earthquake warnings through the China Meteorological Administration website (http://www.cma.gov.cn) or international weather apps (such as AccuWeather).
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Visa and Insurance
- Confirm the validity of your passport and visa, and keep electronic backups (such as uploading them to your email or cloud storage).
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Purchase travel insurance: Choose coverage that includes natural disasters (such as medical rescue and trip cancellation compensation).
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Emergency Supplies Preparation
- Carry with you: portable first aid kit, flashlight, power bank, dry food, bottled water, common medicines (such as anti-diarrhea drugs, fever reducers).
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Important documents: copies of your passport, insurance policy, emergency contact list (including embassy phone numbers).
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Accommodation Selection
- Typhoon prevention: Avoid low-lying areas or old buildings; choose mid-to-lower floors of high-rise hotels.
- Earthquake prevention: Upon check-in, confirm the location of emergency exits, and avoid choosing top-floor rooms.
II. Disaster Response Measures
1. Typhoon Response
- Upon receiving a warning:
- Cancel outdoor activities and avoid going to the beach or mountainous areas.
- Close windows and doors, and reinforce glass with tape to prevent shattering.
- Stock up on water and food for 2-3 days.
- During the typhoon:
- Stay indoors and away from windows.
- Avoid using elevators in case of power outages.
- Transportation adjustments:
- Flights/high-speed trains may be delayed or canceled. Check real-time updates through Air Travel纵横APP or 12306 website.
2. Earthquake Response
- During the earthquake:
- Indoors: Quickly hide under sturdy tables and protect your head; stay away from glass, chandeliers, and other hazardous objects.
- Outdoors: Avoid buildings, trees, utility poles, and move to open areas.
- In mountainous areas/scenic spots: Beware of landslides or falling rocks, and evacuate immediately to safe zones.
- After the earthquake:
- Turn off gas and electricity to prevent secondary disasters.
- Obtain official information through the WeChat 'Earthquake Warning' mini-program or CCTV News APP.
III. Post-Disaster Handling
- Contact Consulates
- Call the Global Consular Protection Hotline of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: +86-10-12308 (24-hour bilingual service).
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Report your safety status to the embassy and request evacuation or medical assistance if needed.
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Traffic and Itinerary Adjustments
- After a typhoon: Some roads may be flooded. Use the Gaode Map APP to check real-time road conditions.
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After an earthquake: Avoid using damaged transportation facilities and prioritize officially recommended modes of transport.
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Health and Psychological Support
- Check for injuries and seek medical attention promptly (China emergency number: 120).
- If psychological counseling is needed, contact international rescue organizations (such as SOS International).
IV. Practical Tools and Contact Information
- Emergency Phone Numbers
- Medical Emergency: 120
- Police: 110
- Fire Department: 119
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Global Consular Protection of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: +86-10-12308
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Essential Apps
- Alipay/WeChat: Bind bank cards for emergency payments; search “City Services” for local emergency information.
- Baidu Map/Gaode Map: Real-time navigation to avoid dangerous areas.
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Translate Now: Chinese-English translation to facilitate communication with locals.
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Warning Tools
- China Earthquake Networks Center: http://www.ceic.ac.cn
- Typhoon Path Real-Time Release System: http://typhoon.nmc.cn
V. Precautions
- Avoid using open flames or electrical appliances during disasters to prevent gas leaks or fires.
- Conserve energy and prioritize personal safety over property.
- Be cautious of false online information and rely on official channels.
