Thousands were evacuated Monday as Super Typhoon Ragasa, described as potentially “catastrophic,” made landfall over Panuitan Island in Cagayan province with gusts up to 230 km/h (143 mph). The storm threatens life-threatening storm surges of more than 3 meters (10 feet), widespread flooding, and landslides.
Schools Closed and Communities at Risk
Classes and government offices shut across large areas, including Manila. The remote Batanes and Babuyan islands—home to about 20,000 residents, many in poverty—were hit first. Authorities warn of heavy damage to homes and infrastructure as Ragasa barrels west toward southern China.
Regional Impact Beyond the Philippines
Taiwan, about 740 km (460 miles) north, expects torrential rain despite not taking a direct hit. Forest trails and ferry services have been suspended, and nearly 300 people have evacuated Hualien County.
China and Hong Kong Prepare
China’s Guangdong province urged residents to brace for a “large-scale disaster,” planning evacuations ahead of Ragasa’s expected landfall later this week. In Shenzhen, officials aim to move 400,000 people. Hong Kong authorities warned weather will “deteriorate rapidly,” prompting Cathay Pacific to cancel 500 flights and Hong Kong Airlines to suspend all departures from Tuesday evening.
Storm Strikes Amid Flood Fatigue
The Philippines is already reeling from weeks of intense monsoon flooding. Over the weekend, tens of thousands protested government corruption and a lack of flood-control infrastructure, underscoring frustration as yet another major storm bears down on the region.
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