Storm & Typhoon Policy

Updated September 2025


Importance of the Policy

Typhoons can disrupt transportation and create dangerous conditions for students and staff when traveling to and from school. This policy ensures clear procedures for school operation, safety, and communication.

Government Reference Website

Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) Warning Map

Warning Levels & Actions

Level 1 (Grey) – No Warning

  • School: Open as usual.

  • Absences: Marked as unexcused.

Level 2 (Yellow) – Advisory

  • School: Open as usual.

  • Action: Be careful and check local conditions.

  • Absences: Marked as excused.

Level 3 (Red) – Warning

  • School: Open.

  • Students: Recommended to stay home if possible.

  • Teachers/Staff: Work as usual, use caution, check surroundings.

  • Absences: Marked as excused.

Level 4 (Purple) – Emergency

  • School: Closed.

  • Students/Staff: Stay home.

  • Absences: Marked as excused.

Level 5 (Black) – Extreme Emergency

  • School: Closed.

  • Students/Staff: Stay home.

  • Absences: Marked as excused.

Communication Procedures

Day Before Typhoon

  • Safety Officer monitors weather conditions.

  • 5:00 PM – Message sent to all parents/staff via Class Dojo and Slack, confirming monitoring and possible expectations for the next day.

Morning of Typhoon

  • 6:00 AM – Check forecast warning levels for 6 AM–4 PM (school hours) and 3 PM–8 PM (afterschool).

  • 6:30 AM – Send message to all parents/staff via Class Dojo and Slack with maximum expected level and school action.

Day of Typhoon

  • Hourly – Check forecast warning levels for school and afterschool timeframes.

  • If students are sent home – Notify parents via Class Dojo and phone if necessary.

  • If staff are dismissed early – Notify via Slack.

Absence Policy

  • Levels 2–5: Absences are excused.

  • If no parental notification is given, follow up by phone and Class Dojo in accordance with the Attendance Policy.

  • Students should not risk being stranded due to transport disruption.

School Office Contact

For attendance or typhoon-related questions:

  • Reception: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM

  • Phone: 090-9546-1074

  • Email: hello@zoeinternationalschool.com

  • Class Dojo: Zoe International School