Philippines Braces for Super Typhoon Ragasa as Thousands Evacuate
Manila, Philippines – Tens of thousands of people have been evacuated across the Philippines as the country braces for Super Typhoon Ragasa, a storm described by regional authorities as potentially “catastrophic.”
Ragasa, carrying powerful wind gusts of up to 230 km/h (143 mph), is expected to make landfall on Monday over the sparsely populated northern islands before moving west toward southern China.
Life-Threatening Storm Surge Warnings
The Philippine weather bureau has warned that the typhoon poses a high risk of life-threatening storm surges, with peak waves potentially exceeding 3 meters (10 feet). Authorities also cautioned of widespread flooding, landslides, and severe damage to homes and infrastructure.
Schools and government offices in several provinces, including the capital Manila, have been closed as a precaution. Emergency teams are on high alert, preparing evacuation centers and rescue operations.
The Batanes and Babuyan Islands, home to around 20,000 residents, are directly in Ragasa’s path. Many of the residents live in poverty, raising concerns about the ability of communities to withstand the storm’s destructive impact.
Taiwan and China Brace for Impact
Although Ragasa is not expected to make direct landfall in Taiwan, the island’s east coast is forecast to be lashed by heavy rainfall and strong winds. Nearly 300 residents in Hualien County have already been evacuated. Authorities have shut down forest trails, suspended ferry services, and urged residents to remain indoors.
In southern China, officials in Guangdong province have urged citizens to prepare for a “large-scale disaster.” Heavy rains and strong winds are expected to begin as early as Tuesday, with landfall predicted later in the week.
Hong Kong authorities also issued warnings, saying weather conditions will “deteriorate rapidly.” The city’s Education Bureau is reviewing school closures, while airlines announced major disruptions. Cathay Pacific will cancel around 500 flights, and Hong Kong Airlines said all departures from the city will be suspended.
Ragasa Strikes Amid Flooding Crisis in Philippines
The typhoon, known locally as Nando, comes as the Philippines is still struggling with weeks of heavy monsoon flooding. The disaster has exposed the country’s fragile infrastructure and fueled public anger.
On Sunday, tens of thousands of Filipinos protested nationwide against corruption, blaming government mismanagement for inadequate flood control systems.
With Ragasa now approaching, officials fear that already vulnerable communities could face devastating consequences from back-to-back disasters.