Hong Kong: Super Typhoon Ragasa, the strongest storm of the year so far, is closing in on southern China after leaving at least five people dead and causing widespread destruction in Taiwan and the Philippines.
Hong Kong braces for severe disruption
The Hong Kong Observatory has raised its third-highest typhoon warning as the system approaches the city. Authorities have warned of “severe disruption” beginning from 6 p.m. today, with more than 700 flights cancelled and schools closed.
Supermarkets across the territory reported panic buying as residents stocked up on groceries and essentials. In neighbouring Macau, precautionary shutdowns were also put in place. Meanwhile, Shenzhen, the Chinese technology hub bordering Hong Kong, has ordered the evacuation of 400,000 residents from vulnerable zones.
Storm intensity remains strong
According to the Philippine weather bureau Pagasa, Ragasa was sustaining winds of 185 kmph with gusts reaching 230 kmph. Meteorologists said the typhoon is expected to maintain its strength over the next 24 hours before gradually weakening as it nears China’s coastline.
The system has been described by forecasters as the most powerful storm on Earth so far this year.
Taiwan and Philippines count losses
In Taiwan, two people lost their lives while floods and landslides damaged infrastructure and disrupted transport. Power outages were reported in multiple counties as emergency teams scrambled to restore electricity and clear blocked roads.
The Philippines confirmed at least three deaths, with Ragasa causing flash floods and landslides in northern provinces. Dozens of homes were swept away, while schools and government buildings sustained heavy damage. Rescue operations are ongoing in remote areas where access remains difficult due to debris and rising waters.
Precautionary measures in China
Authorities in Guangdong province, which includes major cities such as Shenzhen and Guangzhou, have activated emergency protocols. Evacuation centres have been prepared, ferry services suspended, and coastal industries advised to halt operations.
Chinese state media reported that power utilities and disaster relief teams have been placed on high alert. The Ministry of Emergency Management urged local administrations to prioritise the safety of residents in low-lying and mountainous areas.
Global attention on Ragasa
The super typhoon’s sheer scale has drawn international concern, with climate scientists noting that warming ocean waters have contributed to the intensity of recent tropical systems in Asia. The UN weather agency warned of heightened risks of flooding and storm surges across coastal cities in southern China.
Hong Kong’s Chief Executive appealed for public cooperation, urging residents to stay indoors and avoid non-essential travel. “The coming hours are critical, and we must prioritise safety,” she said.
Outlook
Ragasa is expected to weaken slightly before landfall but forecasters caution that the storm will still bring destructive winds, heavy rainfall, and dangerous sea conditions across southern China. Recovery efforts in Taiwan and the Philippines are expected to take weeks as authorities assess the full scale of damage.