Typhoon Ragasa Lashes Philippines, Threatens Hong Kong and China
Typhoon Ragasa, one of the strongest storms of the year, is currently impacting Southeast Asia, having already battered the Philippines and now threatening Hong Kong and coastal areas of China. The powerful storm has forced thousands to evacuate and has led to widespread closures and travel disruptions.
Impact on the Philippines
Ragasa slammed into the Philippines with sustained winds of up to 215 kph (134 mph) and gusts reaching 295 kph (183 mph). The storm made landfall near Panuitan Island off Cagayan province, causing significant disruption and prompting widespread evacuations. The Philippine weather agency warned of a "high risk of life-threatening storm surge" with waves potentially exceeding 3 meters (nearly 10 feet) in several northern provinces including Cagayan, Batanes, Ilocos Norte, and Ilocos Sur.
- More than 8,200 people were evacuated in Cagayan.
- 1,220 people sought refuge in emergency shelters in Apayao.
- President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. suspended government work and classes in Manila and 29 provinces.
- Power outages were reported on Calayan Island and in Apayao.
Hong Kong and Macao Prepare for Impact
Ragasa is expected to sweep south of both Hong Kong and Macao. While Hong Kong's airport is expected to remain open, significant flight reductions are anticipated. Cathay Pacific Airways announced the suspension of passenger flights scheduled to depart and arrive after 6 p.m. on Tuesday, with over 500 flight cancellations expected. Schools in both Hong Kong and Macao will be closed for two days.
"Flights would be significantly reduced after 6 p.m. Tuesday and most flight operations would be affected on Wednesday." - Hong Kong Airport Authority
Authorities in Hong Kong are providing extra sandbags to flood-prone areas, and police in Macao are urging residents in low-lying areas to prepare for possible evacuation.
China Braces for Landfall
Typhoon Ragasa is predicted to bring torrential rains and heavy winds to coastal areas of mainland China, particularly in Guangdong province. Cities like Jiangmen, Yangjiang, Zhongshan, and Zhuhai have suspended schools, offices, factories, and transportation. China's National Meteorological Center forecasts that the typhoon could make landfall multiple times in Guangdong.
Officials in Shenzhen planned to relocate approximately 400,000 people from vulnerable areas, and Shenzhen's airport halted flights. Authorities are urging residents to take precautions, stockpile emergency supplies, and reinforce their homes.
