Super Typhoon Ragasa has battered parts of the Philippines and Taiwan with destructive flooding and high winds, and now threatens to make landfall in southern China — prompting authorities to evacuate nearly two million people in Guangdong province alone.
Death Toll in Taiwan and the Philippines
- In Taiwan, the worst damage occurred in Hualien County, where a barrier lake overflowed in Guangfu Township, unleashing floodwaters that washed away bridges, roads, and homes. Officials have confirmed 14 deaths, with 124 people initially reported missing.
- In the Philippines, at least 10 people have died—many of them fishermen caught in rough seas. Rough rainfall and flooding affected vast parts of northern Luzon, with hundreds of thousands of residents disrupted.
Southern China Mobilizes for Impact
As Ragasa moves toward the Chinese coast, authorities in Guangdong province have evacuated nearly 1.9 million people, suspended schools, factories, and public transport, and issued storm surge warnings in coastal cities.
In Hong Kong, the city issued its Typhoon Signal No. 8, canceled over 500 flights, and recorded flooding, fallen trees, and damage to buildings. More than 60 people were injured in weather-related incidents.
Storm Details & Forecast
- Ragasa is among the strongest tropical cyclones of 2025. In Guangdong’s Chuandao, gusts reached 241 kph, setting local wind records.
- The storm is projected to make landfall between Yangjiang and Zhanjiang later today.
- Storm surge forecasts cite water level rises of 2–5 meters in coastal zones, especially north of the eye path. Heavy rainfall (250–450 mm) is also expected, raising flood risk.
On the Ground: Infrastructure, Rescue & Response
- In Taiwan, rescue teams and the military have been deployed. In Guangfu, many residents sheltered on higher floors as flooding swept through low-lying areas.
- In southern China, emergency management authorities have sent tents, bedding, lighting, and supplies to strategic locations ahead of landfall.
- In Hong Kong and Macau, infrastructure damage is widespread: road flooding, tree falls, power outages, and disruption of public transit.
Risks & What Could Go Wrong
- Flooding & Landslides: Mountainous areas in Taiwan are particularly vulnerable to flash floods and landslides triggered by heavy rain.
- Storm Surge: Coastal areas north of landfall could see extreme surge, especially where tidal conditions align.
- Infrastructure Failures: Bridges, roads, drainage systems and dams may be stressed or fail under intense rainfall.
- Power & Communications Loss: Widespread outages and broken lines might impede rescue and relief operations.
This is a fast-moving situation. For readers in affected areas: stay tuned to official weather updates, heed evacuation orders, and avoid low-lying or flooding zones.
