Typhoon Ragasa: A Devastating Force in Asia
Typhoon Ragasa has made a powerful and destructive impact on several regions in Asia, including the Philippines, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and southern China. The storm, which is one of the most intense typhoons of the year, has brought with it catastrophic winds, heavy rainfall, and widespread flooding. As it continues its path through the South China Sea, the storm has left a trail of destruction, prompting emergency responses and mass evacuations.
Impact on the Philippines
The Philippines was among the first to feel the full force of Typhoon Ragasa. Known locally as Nando, the storm hit the northern island of Panuitan as a super typhoon, with sustained winds reaching over 267 kph (165 mph). This level of intensity is equivalent to a Category 5 hurricane, making it one of the strongest storms recorded this year.
In the Babuyan Islands, the damage remains unclear, but the Philippine meteorological agency PAGASA issued warnings of life-threatening conditions due to the storm’s powerful winds and heavy rains. Images from Calayan Island showed roofs ripped from homes, damaged houses, and boats washed ashore. Search and rescue teams have been working tirelessly to recover victims, with three bodies recovered after a fishing boat was overturned by a large wave. Of the 13 people on board, six were rescued, while four remain missing.
In the Cagayan province, agricultural workers were particularly affected. Farmers, including residents like Orlando Bartolome Labio, described the devastation as “a very sad event.” In addition to the loss of property, many families were displaced, with more than 24,000 people evacuated across northern and central Luzon ahead of the storm.
Effects on Taiwan
Taiwan also suffered significant damage from the typhoon. At least 14 people were killed when a barrier lake breached in the eastern county of Hualien, causing widespread flooding. Video footage showed a large bridge collapsing, and authorities reported multiple injuries and infrastructure damage. The storm disrupted daily life, with schools and businesses closed and public transport halted.
Response in Hong Kong and Southern China
As Typhoon Ragasa approached Hong Kong and southern China, local authorities issued high-level warnings. Hong Kong and Macau activated their highest typhoon warning signal, T10, as sustained winds reached typhoon strength. The Hong Kong Observatory warned of “phenomenal” ocean swells and storm surges of up to 4 meters in some areas.
Schools, businesses, and public transport were shut down in preparation for the storm. Supermarkets saw empty shelves as residents stocked up on supplies. Flights were canceled across the region, with major airlines like Cathay Pacific and Hong Kong Airlines suspending operations for several days.
In Guangdong province, cities like Guangzhou and Shenzhen took drastic measures to protect their populations. Guangzhou issued its highest red alert, while Shenzhen prepared to relocate 400,000 people from low-lying and coastal areas. The mega bridge linking Hong Kong, Macau, and Zhuhai was also closed as a precaution.
Human Toll and Rescue Efforts
The human toll of Typhoon Ragasa has been severe. In Hong Kong, three people were rescued from the sea after a five-year-old boy and a woman were swept away by waves. The boy’s father jumped into the water to save them, and a passing sailor helped rescue the pair. All three are now receiving medical treatment.
Rescue efforts continued in the Philippines, where search and rescue teams worked through the night to find survivors. In the northern Luzon region, video footage showed teams rescuing families from the heavy winds and torrential rain, with excavators clearing debris from mud-caked roads. In Benguet, a landslide killed one person and injured several others.
Ongoing Threat and Future Outlook
Despite weakening slightly, Typhoon Ragasa remains a powerful storm. It is expected to continue moving west-northwest, making landfall in western portions of Guangdong province on Wednesday afternoon. While the storm is likely to weaken to a Category 3 hurricane, it will still bring strong winds and heavy rainfall, posing a significant threat to the region.
Authorities in China have activated emergency responses, and residents are urged to remain vigilant. Heavy rain advisories remain in place for much of the northern Philippines, with further risks of flooding and landslides possible in Luzon.
As the storm moves closer to Hong Kong and southern China, the focus remains on safety and preparedness. With the potential for further damage, communities across the region are bracing for the ongoing challenges posed by Typhoon Ragasa.
