BEIJING/MANILA/TAIPEI: Super Typhoon Ragasa has forced widespread shutdowns and mass evacuations across China, the Philippines, and Taiwan, bringing destructive winds, torrential rain, and the threat of landslides and storm surges.
China: Cities on Alert
- Schools and businesses closed in at least 10 cities across southern China.
- Shenzhen authorities urged residents not to “go out casually,” with exceptions only for rescue and essential workers.
- About 400,000 residents in flood-prone and low-lying areas set for relocation.
- Shenzhen airport announced suspension of operations from Tuesday night.
Philippines: Evacuations and Suspensions
- Known locally as Nando, Ragasa struck Panuitan island in Cagayan province with sustained winds of 215 kph (134 mph) and gusts of 295 kph (183 mph).
- Thousands evacuated; more than 8,200 residents in Cagayan and 1,220 in Apayao moved to shelters.
- Power outages reported in Calayan island and Apayao province.
- Domestic flights and inter-island ferries halted due to dangerous seas.
- President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. suspended government work and classes in Manila and 29 northern provinces.
Taiwan: Disruption Across South
- Authorities closed schools and offices in Taitung and Pingtung counties and on Orchid and Green islands.
- Ferry services suspended; multiple afternoon flights canceled.
- Residents advised to remain indoors and brace for flooding, landslides, and storm surges.
Outlook
The storm is forecast to remain over the South China Sea until Wednesday, passing south of Taiwan and Hong Kong before striking the Chinese mainland. Emergency measures continue across the region as authorities race to safeguard lives and property.
