News Summary
As Super Typhoon Ragasa approaches southern China, cities are enacting safety measures to protect residents and infrastructure. The storm, which recently devastated the Philippines, is expected to make landfall in Guangdong province. Authorities have issued warnings and initiated evacuations in vulnerable areas, while Hong Kong faces significant transportation disruptions and flooding risks. Preparations include school closures and mobilization of emergency teams. The situation remains critical as local agencies monitor Ragasa’s path and advise residents to stay indoors.
Guangzhou, China — Southern China Prepares for Super Typhoon Ragasa
Several cities in southern China are taking measures to safeguard residents and infrastructure as Super Typhoon Ragasa approaches the region. The storm has already caused significant destruction and loss of life in the Philippines, prompting widespread evacuations and closures in neighboring Chinese and Hong Kong territories.
Typhoon Ragasa’s Current Status and Expected Path
Super Typhoon Ragasa is classified as a powerful storm with maximum sustained winds reaching approximately 143 mph (230 kph). The Hong Kong Observatory reports that the typhoon is moving west-northwest at around 14 mph (22 kph). It is anticipated to make landfall along China’s Guangdong province, specifically between Shenzhen city and Xuwen county, by Wednesday.
The China’s National Meteorological Center predicts that the storm will reach the coastline within the next 24 hours. As of now, Mainland China officials warn that heavy rainfall and strong winds are imminent, with regions expecting rainfall accumulations of up to 280 mm (11 inches).
Impact on Hong Kong and Macao
In Hong Kong, authorities have issued storm warning signal No. 8, indicating dangerous storm conditions and the likelihood of sustained strong winds. The Hong Kong Observatory expects water levels to increase by approximately 2 meters (6.5 feet), with potential rises up to 4 to 5 meters (13.1 to 16.4 feet).
As a response, many residents are taking precautions such as placing sandbags and sealing windows with tape. Many stores are experiencing shortages of supplies as people stock up on essentials. Public transportation services have been affected, with hundreds of flights canceled, and the Hong Kong International Airport anticipates significant disruptions.
Shenzhen and other areas such as Foshan and Haikou have announced the cancellation of classes and the suspension of some public services. The Macao government activated its emergency response system, with evacuation plans underway for residents as Ragasa is forecast to pass within 62 miles (100 kilometers) of the region.
Preparations and School Closures
Across Hong Kong, Macao, and parts of southern China, authorities are proactively closing schools and suspending operations across various sectors to prepare for dangerous conditions. Shenzhen plans to evacuate approximately 400,000 residents from vulnerable neighborhoods.
Rail services throughout Guangdong province will be suspended starting midday Tuesday, aiming to minimize risks posed by heavy rain and strong winds. Emergency teams have been mobilized to assist with evacuations and to reinforce critical infrastructure.
Storm Effects and Travel Disruptions
At least 500 flights from Hong Kong’s airport have been canceled, and Shenzhen airport has halted all outbound flights since Tuesday night. Transportation disruptions are anticipated to continue as officials monitor the storm’s progression, with authorities urging the public to stay updated and remain in safe locations.
Weather Impact in Taiwan
Meanwhile, in Taiwan, outer bands of Ragasa are causing strong winds and rough seas along eastern coastal areas. State weather agencies forecast heavy rainfall, with some regions expecting more than 100 mm (4 inches) of rain, which could lead to flooding and landslides.
Philippines’ Experience and Ongoing Rescue Operations
Prior to reaching China, Ragasa impacted the Philippines, where it has claimed at least three lives and displaced over 17,500 people. A 74-year-old man died after being trapped in his vehicle during a landslide, and numerous homes suffered damages after flooding and falling trees.
In northern Cagayan Province, where the storm made landfall, officials report destroyed homes and debris-blocked roads. Rescue efforts are underway for six fishermen reported missing after their boat capsized amid high waves. Over 24,000 residents in Luzon had been evacuated in anticipation of the storm’s landfall.
Winds gusted up to 295 kph (183 mph) in some areas, illustrating the storm’s dangerous intensity. The Philippines declared national emergency measures and closed schools and government offices throughout affected regions.
Space Observation and International Impact
From space, Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yui captured clear imagery of Ragasa, showing its large size and swirling structure over the ocean. The storm’s outer bands have also affected interactions in nearby Taiwan, where authorities prepare for potentially record-breaking rainfall and adverse weather conditions.
Next Steps—Emergency agencies in China continue to monitor Ragasa’s movement and are emphasizing the importance of staying indoors and adhering to official advisories. Officials are readying shelters and rescue teams to assist residents in vulnerable areas as the typhoon progresses toward landfall.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- CNN: Southern China Prepares for Super Typhoon Ragasa
- Wikipedia: Typhoon
- China Daily: Typhoon Ragasa Updates
- Google Search: Super Typhoon Ragasa
- Al Jazeera: Super Typhoon Heads to Taiwan and Hong Kong
- Google Scholar: Typhoon Ragasa
- ABC News: China Cancels Schools and Flights for Typhoon
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Typhoon
- South China Morning Post: China Braces for Super Typhoon Ragasa
- Google News: Typhoon Ragasa
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