Super Typhoon Ragasa Approaches Hong Kong After Devastating Philippines

Super Typhoon Ragasa, one of the most powerful storms this year, is advancing toward Hong Kong after causing significant damage in the Philippines. The storm has sustained winds of approximately 230 kilometers per hour (143 mph) and is expected to impact Hong Kong and southern China imminently.

In the Philippines, Ragasa led to the evacuation of thousands and resulted in at least three fatalities. The storm made landfall over Panuitan Island in the northern Cagayan province, bringing wind gusts up to 295 km/h (183 mph). Authorities reported widespread flooding and landslides, with more than 10,000 people evacuated across northern and central Luzon.

Hong Kong is bracing for the typhoon's arrival. The Hong Kong Observatory plans to raise its typhoon warning to T8, the city's third-highest level, by Tuesday afternoon. This alert level mandates business closures and suspension of most public transport services.

The Airport Authority has announced significant disruptions to flight operations starting at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, with most flights affected on Wednesday. Cathay Pacific Airways anticipates canceling over 500 flights during this period.

In preparation, all schools in Hong Kong and Macao will be closed for the next two days. Authorities have distributed additional sandbags to flood-prone areas, and residents in low-lying regions have been advised to prepare for possible evacuation.

Mainland China's coastal areas are also on high alert. Cities such as Jiangmen, Yangjiang, Zhongshan, and Zhuhai in Guangdong province have ordered the suspension of schools, offices, factories, and transportation services. The typhoon is expected to make landfall in Guangdong more than once, according to China's weather agency.

Residents in affected regions are urged to stockpile emergency supplies, reinforce doors and windows, and evacuate underground areas as a precaution against potential flooding and landslides.