Super Typhoon Ragasa Causes Fatalities and Disruptions in the Philippines and Southern China

Super Typhoon Ragasa has caused significant disruptions across the Philippines and southern China. In the Philippines, the storm made landfall on Monday in Calayan province, leading to at least three fatalities and the evacuation of over 17,500 individuals due to flooding and landslides.

In response to the approaching typhoon, Chinese authorities have initiated extensive precautionary measures. The city of Shenzhen plans to evacuate approximately 400,000 residents from coastal and low-lying areas. Hong Kong has raised its storm warning signal to No. 8, the third-highest level, resulting in the closure of schools and businesses, as well as the cancellation of numerous flights.

The Hong Kong Observatory reported that Ragasa is carrying maximum sustained winds of about 220 kilometers per hour (approximately 140 miles per hour) and is moving northwest over the South China Sea. The typhoon is expected to make landfall between Zhuhai and Zhanjiang in Guangdong province between midday and evening on Wednesday.

Residents in flood-prone areas have been fortifying their homes with sandbags and barriers, while others have taped windows and stocked up on essential supplies. Authorities have warned of potential storm surges and flooding, urging the public to remain vigilant as the typhoon approaches.