The Most Powerful Storm of 2025 Hits the Philippines, Sparks Warnings Across Asia
A super typhoon has made landfall in the northern Philippines, marking one of the most intense weather events of 2025. Known locally as Nando, Typhoon Ragasa brought with it destructive winds and torrential rain, prompting large-scale evacuations and emergency preparations across the region. As the storm moves westward, it threatens to impact Hong Kong, Taiwan, and southern China, raising concerns about flooding, landslides, and infrastructure damage.
Intensity and Impact on the Philippines
Typhoon Ragasa, classified as a Category 5 hurricane with sustained winds exceeding 267 kph (165 mph), made landfall over Panuitan Island in Cagayan province on Monday. The storm’s outer bands have already begun to unleash heavy rainfall and powerful gusts, with wind speeds reaching up to 315 kph (195 mph) in some areas. These conditions have led to widespread flooding and landslides, particularly in northern Luzon, where rainfall totals could surpass 400 mm (15 inches) in certain regions.
The Philippine meteorological agency, PAGASA, issued its highest tropical cyclone wind signal No. 5 for the northern Babuyan Islands, warning residents of potentially life-threatening conditions. Over 10,000 people were evacuated from northern and central Luzon, with officials urging citizens to prioritize safety amid the growing threat.
In the capital area of Metro Manila and 29 provinces in the Luzon region, government work and school activities were halted. Hospitals in northern Cagayan province were placed on high alert, while power outages affected Calayan Island and the entire Apayao province. Residents in areas like Lal-lo town in Cagayan province reported fierce winds and water surging through streets, highlighting the severity of the storm.
Climate Crisis Amplifies Storm Threats
The Philippines is no stranger to typhoons, but the increasing frequency and intensity of such storms are linked to the climate crisis. Human-caused global warming has contributed to more unpredictable and extreme weather patterns, leaving vulnerable communities at greater risk. In 2024 alone, the country was hit by four typhoons within two weeks, causing extensive damage from floods, storm surges, and landslides.
Experts warn that the western Pacific, which is the most active tropical basin on Earth, is experiencing an increase in the number of powerful storms. Record-breaking ocean temperatures have provided ample energy for these storms to intensify rapidly, leading to more frequent and severe weather events.
Preparations in Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Southern China
As Typhoon Ragasa moves toward Hong Kong and southern China, authorities in these regions have taken precautionary measures to minimize the impact. In Hong Kong, schools will be closed on Tuesday and Wednesday, and transport links are being suspended. The city’s government has also warned of potential flooding, landslides, and fallen trees, drawing comparisons to past devastating storms like Typhoon Hato in 2017 and Typhoon Mangkhut in 2018.
Hong Kong-based airline Cathay Pacific has canceled over 500 flights scheduled for Tuesday evening, while another regional carrier, Hong Kong Airlines, has suspended dozens of flights for the week. A mega bridge linking Hong Kong, Macau, and Zhuhai will also be closed on Tuesday.
In mainland China, officials are preparing to evacuate 400,000 people from low-lying and coastal areas of Shenzhen. Train services in Guangdong province will be gradually suspended starting Tuesday. Meanwhile, in Taiwan, ferry services and nature trails in southern and eastern counties have been shut down, with around 300 residents in Hualien County placed on standby for evacuation.
Rapid Intensification and Future Path
Typhoon Ragasa’s rapid intensification was fueled by an eyewall replacement cycle, a process where a secondary ring of thunderstorms forms outside the storm’s core and replaces the original inner eyewall. This results in a larger, more powerful storm with broader wind fields. Such phenomena are becoming more common as global temperatures rise.
According to the Joint Typhoon Warning Center, Ragasa is expected to move south of Hong Kong early Wednesday, with maximum winds just over 200 kph and gusts up to 250 kph—equivalent to a strong Category 3 hurricane. While the storm may not make direct landfall in Hong Kong, its outer bands will still bring heavy rain and strong winds, posing a significant threat to the region.
Long-Term Implications and Climate Resilience
The increasing frequency of extreme weather events underscores the urgent need for climate resilience strategies. As the world continues to warm, the risks associated with typhoons and hurricanes will only grow. Governments and communities must invest in early warning systems, infrastructure upgrades, and disaster preparedness to protect lives and livelihoods.
In the wake of this storm, the Philippines, Hong Kong, and other affected regions will face the daunting task of recovery and rebuilding. However, the lessons learned from this event can serve as a catalyst for stronger climate action and international cooperation.
