News Summary
Super Typhoon Ragasa is approaching Southern China, prompting closures of schools and transportation services. This Category 4 storm, with winds of 143 mph, is expected to hit during the upcoming days, raising flood risks and disrupting daily activities. Authorities are preparing for severe weather impacts including heavy rainfall and storm surges. Meanwhile, the storm has already caused fatalities and widespread displacement in the Philippines. Residents are urged to follow safety measures and evacuation protocols amid this dangerous weather system.
Guangzhou, China – Southern China Prepares for Super Typhoon Ragasa
Southern Chinese cities are bracing for the imminent arrival of Super Typhoon Ragasa, prompting widespread suspension of schools, transportation services, and public activities. The typhoon, currently classified as a Category 4 hurricane, is forecasted to make landfall along Guangdong province’s coast as early as Wednesday, bringing severe weather and rising flood risks to the region.
Storm Intensity and Path
The Hong Kong Observatory reports that Ragasa has maximum sustained winds of approximately 143 miles per hour (230 kilometers per hour), with gusts potentially exceeding this value. The typhoon is moving west-northwest at about 14 miles per hour (22 kilometers per hour), heading toward the southern coast of China. Predictions indicate that the storm will impact areas between Shenzhen and Xuwen county, with China’s National Meteorological Center warning of heavy rainfall and storm surges upon landfall.
Expected Weather and Coastal Impact
Authorities anticipate that water levels along the Guangdong coast could rise by approximately 2 meters (6.5 feet), with potential surges reaching 4 to 5 meters (13.1 to 16.4 feet). Advanced preparations include constructing sandbag barriers at homes and businesses, and residents are advised to reinforce windows with tape and ensure emergency supplies are readily available.
Disruption of Daily Activities and Transportation
Across Hong Kong and nearby cities, numerous schools have been closed, including in Hong Kong, Macao, Shenzhen, Foshan, and Haikou. The Hong Kong International Airport has canceled over 500 flights, and Shenzhen airport has suspended all flights starting Tuesday night. Additionally, the city’s storm warning signal No. 8, the third-highest level, is in effect, signaling significant weather disturbances.
In Guangdong province, authorities have suspended rail services across the region and are preparing for the impact of heavy rainfall expected to amount up to 280 millimeters (11 inches). Emergency response mechanisms are active, highlighting the seriousness of the approaching storm.
Impact in the Philippines
Prior to reaching China, Super Typhoon Ragasa has caused severe consequences in the Philippines. Since making landfall in the northern Cagayan Province, the storm has resulted in at least three fatalities, including a man trapped in a vehicle during a landslide. Over 17,500 people have been displaced across northern and central Luzon due to strong winds and flooding.
More than 24,000 residents have been evacuated from vulnerable areas before the storm’s peak, and operations continue to locate six fishermen reported missing after their boat was overturned by rough seas. Winds reaching 295 kph (183 mph) have caused destruction, including fallen trees and damaged homes.
Emergency Response and Safety Measures
In response to Ragasa’s approach, the Philippine government has closed schools and governmental offices in the capital region and 29 northern provinces. All fishing boats and ferries are prohibited from operating due to treacherous sea conditions. Rescue teams are actively running operations to assist stranded or endangered civilians.
Other Regional Effects
Across Taiwan, authorities are monitoring the storm’s outer bands, which are causing rough seas and strong winds along the eastern coast. State weather agencies have issued warnings of extremely heavy rainfall, which could lead to flooding and landslides in vulnerable areas.
From space, Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yui captured a view of Ragasa showing its expansive size and intensity. The image underscores the storm’s significant visual and physical impact on the Asia-Pacific region.
Summary and Preparedness
As Super Typhoon Ragasa continues its westward approach, authorities in China, Hong Kong, and the Philippines emphasize the importance of safety precautions and timely evacuations. The regions are on high alert for heavy rainfall, storm surges, and widespread disruptions over the coming days, underscoring the need for residents to stay informed and follow emergency guidelines.
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Additional Resources
- CNN: Southern China Prepares for Super Typhoon Ragasa
- Wikipedia: Typhoon
- China Daily: Typhoon Ragasa Updates
- Google Search: Super Typhoon Ragasa
- Al Jazeera: Super Typhoon Heads to Taiwan and Hong Kong
- Google Scholar: Typhoon Ragasa
- ABC News: China Cancels Schools and Flights for Typhoon
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Typhoon
- South China Morning Post: China Braces for Super Typhoon Ragasa
- Google News: Typhoon Ragasa
Author: STAFF HERE WASHINGTON DC
WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER The WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWashingtonDC.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Washington, DC, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and regional news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Cherry Blossom Festival, Kennedy Center Honors, and the Washington Auto Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Washington Board of Trade and Destination DC, plus leading businesses in government contracting and technology that power the local economy such as Lockheed Martin and Amazon. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic landscape of the Washington metropolitan area.
