Southern China is preparing for the arrival of what is being described as the strongest storm of the year, with authorities ordering mass evacuations and widespread closures. Typhoon Ragasa, also known as the “King of Storms” by China’s meteorological agency, has already prompted the evacuation of over 370,000 people in Guangdong province alone. Schools in at least ten cities have been shut, and some businesses have temporarily ceased operations to protect staff and property.

In Hong Kong, the government has upgraded its typhoon warning to Signal 8, just two levels below the maximum alert. Residents are bracing for potentially catastrophic impacts as Ragasa approaches the southern coast. Supermarkets across the city have seen shelves emptied of essentials such as bread, vegetables, meat, and instant noodles, as locals stock up in preparation for the storm.

Hong Kong International Airport has warned of significant flight disruptions beginning Tuesday evening and continuing into Wednesday. Cathay Pacific is expected to cancel over 500 flights, while Hong Kong Airlines has announced a temporary halt to all departures. The storm’s potential impact on travel highlights the urgent need for preparation in one of the busiest transport hubs in the region.

Across southern China, residents are taking proactive measures to protect homes and businesses. In coastal cities, shop owners have stacked sandbags in front of their stores, while people living in low-lying areas are particularly alert to the risks of tidal surges. Many have also reinforced windows with tape to minimise damage from high winds and flying debris.

Climate Change in Ragasa

Experts note that while the exact role of climate change in Ragasa’s intensity remains uncertain, a warming world is expected to make tropical storms more severe. Rising ocean temperatures can lead to higher wind speeds, heavier rainfall, and increased coastal flooding. Although the total number of typhoons in East and Southeast Asia may decrease, the storms that do form are likely to be stronger.

The typhoon has already affected neighbouring regions. Taiwan experienced relatively mild impacts, although six people were injured and more than 100 international flights were cancelled. The northern Philippines faced stronger conditions, with at least one fatality reported and thousands of families evacuated ahead of the storm. Schools and government offices, including in Manila, were closed in anticipation of Ragasa’s arrival.

Super Typhoon Ragasa Reached Wind Gusts of 285 km

At its peak, Super Typhoon Ragasa reached wind gusts of 285 km/h (177 mph), equivalent to a Category 5 hurricane, triggering warnings of floods, storm surges, and landslides. Hong Kong officials have highlighted the serious threat posed by Ragasa, drawing comparisons to previous devastating storms like Mangkhut (2018) and Hato (2017).

As southern China and Hong Kong brace for the impact of Typhoon Ragasa, authorities continue to emphasise public safety. Residents are advised to follow evacuation orders, secure their property, and monitor official weather updates. Preparation is crucial in mitigating the storm’s destructive potential.