Super Typhoon Ragasa Nears Philippines

Thousands in the Philippines have been evacuated as Super Typhoon Ragasa, with gusts of 230km/h (143mph), approaches the northern islands, potentially causing "catastrophic" impacts. The typhoon is expected to bring life-threatening storm surges over 3m (10ft) and severe flooding, prompting the closure of schools and government offices, including in Manila. The sparsely populated Batanes and Babuyan islands, home to about 20,000 people, are projected to be the first hit.

 

Ragasa, equivalent to a Category 5 hurricane, is forecast to move towards southern China after passing the Philippines. In Guangdong province, residents are preparing for anticipated "catastrophic" conditions by mid-week. Meanwhile, Hong Kong authorities warn of rapidly deteriorating weather.

 

Taiwan, though not in the direct path, expects heavy rains along its east coast, with evacuations already underway in Hualien. The island has closed forest areas and suspended some ferry services. Back in the Philippines, recent protests highlight public frustration over inadequate flood control infrastructure, exacerbated by an intense monsoon season.

 

Key Takeaways

• Super Typhoon Ragasa threatens Philippines with severe impacts.
• Batanes and Babuyan islands face potential catastrophic damage.
• Southern China prepares for landfall later this week.

 

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-09-21

 

 

 

And it seems Hong Kong International Airport will suspend all passenger flights for 36 hours from Tuesday evening, Qantas Airways says, as the Asian financial hub prepares for one of its strongest super typhoons in years.

 

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