China has evacuated hundreds of thousands of people and closed schools and some businesses in at least ten cities. Authorities prepare for the strongest storm of the year to hit the southern coast.
Hong Kong raises typhoon alert as storm approaches
Hong Kong upgraded its typhoon warning to level eight, just two steps below the maximum, as Super Typhoon Ragasa nears. Residents stocked up on supplies and secured homes in anticipation. Supermarkets emptied of bread, vegetables, meat, and instant noodles as people prepared to shelter.
Hong Kong International Airport warned of significant disruption to flights from Tuesday evening until Wednesday. Cathay Pacific canceled over 500 flights, and Hong Kong Airlines suspended all departures from the city.
Guangdong province braces for impact
The storm is expected to hit Guangdong province on Wednesday. Authorities evacuated about 370,000 people so far and warned of catastrophic conditions. Shop owners across southern China piled sandbags outside stores, while residents in low-lying coastal areas worried about tidal surges. Many homes and businesses had their windows taped up to prevent damage.
Climate change and stronger storms
Experts have not yet determined exactly how climate change influenced Ragasa. However, UN scientists warn that a warming world generally increases tropical storm intensity. Stronger winds, heavier rainfall, and greater risk of coastal flooding may become more common, even if the number of typhoons across East and Southeast Asia decreases.
Regional impact of Ragasa
Taiwan avoided major damage, but six people suffered injuries, and more than 100 international flights were canceled. In northern Philippines, Ragasa killed at least one person and forced thousands of families to evacuate before landfall. Schools and government offices closed, including in the capital Manila.
Super typhoon strength and warnings
Ragasa, equivalent to a Category 5 hurricane, reached wind gusts up to 285 km/h (177 mph) on Monday. Authorities issued flood, storm surge, and landslide warnings across the region. Eric Chan, Hong Kong’s Chief Secretary for Administration, called Ragasa a serious threat, comparing it to previous destructive typhoons.
Super typhoon Mangkhut in 2018 injured 200 people, sank ships, and caused HK$4.6 billion ($592m/£438m) in damages. Typhoon Hato in 2017 also caused severe flooding and injured more than 100 residents.
