Super Typhoon Ragasa Barrels Towards China After Battering Philippines, Triggering Mass Evacuations and Flight Disruptions
Super Typhoon Ragasa, the strongest storm recorded this year, is sweeping towards China after lashing the Philippines with winds approaching 270kmph. The typhoon has forced tens of thousands to evacuate and prompted widespread disruptions to flights, schools, and businesses across the region. Authorities are warning of potential flooding, landslides, and major damage to infrastructure.
Philippines Grapples with "Life-Threatening Conditions"
The Philippine weather bureau has issued warnings of a "high risk of life-threatening storm surge" with waves exceeding 3 meters (10ft). Ragasa made landfall over sparsely populated northern islands on Monday, September 22, causing widespread power cuts, submerging rice fields, and triggering flood warnings for Manila. More than 10,000 people were evacuated to schools and emergency shelters. The Philippine government has stated it has sufficient resources to assist affected communities.
- A red rainfall warning has been issued for several provinces in northern Philippines, with over 200mm of rain expected.
- President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has ordered immediate support for affected residents and frontline agencies.
- The "stadium effect" was reportedly experienced by residents on Babuyan Island as the eye of the storm passed over.
Hong Kong and Macao Brace for Impact, Flight Disruptions Expected
Hong Kong and Macao are bracing for impact as Ragasa approaches, with all schools closed for the next two days. More than the usual number of sandbags have been provided to flood-prone areas in Hong Kong, while Macao police have urged residents in low-lying areas to prepare for possible evacuation. Hong Kong International Airport is expected to experience significant flight reductions, with some airlines suspending operations altogether.
- Cathay Pacific expects to cancel more than 500 flights starting Tuesday.
- Qantas Airways has announced flight disruptions from Tuesday evening to Thursday morning.
- Hong Kong residents stocked up on food and essentials, leading to empty shelves in supermarkets.
China Activates Emergency Response, Mass Evacuations Planned
China has activated a Level II emergency response as Ragasa is expected to bring torrential rains and heavy winds to its mainland coastal areas. Multiple cities in southern Guangdong province, including Jiangmen, Yangjiang, Zhongshan, and Zhuhai, have ordered the suspension of schools, offices, factories, and transportation. Authorities are planning to evacuate approximately 400,000 residents from flood-prone areas in Shenzhen.
The typhoon could make landfall in Guangdong more than once, according to China's weather agency.
Taiwan Issues Warnings and Suspends Travel
While Taiwan is not expected to be directly hit, authorities have issued land and sea warnings, suspended some ferry services, and evacuated residents from mountainous areas. Heavy rain is expected on the island’s east coast, causing disruptions to domestic flights and ferry services.
| Affected Area | Impact |
|---|---|
| Philippines | Evacuations, flooding, power outages, school and work suspensions. |
| Hong Kong & Macao | School closures, flight disruptions, increased flood preparations. |
| China | Mass evacuations, suspension of activities, flood control measures. |
| Taiwan | Travel disruptions, evacuations in mountainous areas, heavy rain. |
Super Typhoon Ragasa, the most powerful storm of the year, continues to pose a significant threat to East Asia, demanding preparedness and vigilance from residents and authorities alike.
