China is preparing to evacuate more than 400,000 people as Super Typhoon Ragasa moves closer to its southern coast. The storm already made landfall in the northern Philippines on Monday, bringing heavy winds and dangerous conditions.
According to officials, the city of Shenzhen has begun large-scale evacuation measures. Schools were closed, and emergency shelters were readied to protect residents. Authorities warned of flooding, power cuts, and possible landslides as the super typhoon continues its path toward China.
In the Philippines, the storm first struck Calayan Island in the Babuyan group at around 3 pm local time (0700 GMT). The Philippine weather service confirmed that Ragasa brought gale-force winds and torrential rain, forcing residents to seek shelter in evacuation centers.
Super Typhoon Ragasa has been described as one of the strongest storms to hit the region in recent years. Wind gusts have exceeded 230 km/h, raising fears of widespread destruction. Local officials said preparations were crucial to minimize casualties, especially in rural areas where infrastructure is weaker.
The storm has disrupted transportation across both countries. In the Philippines, ferry services were suspended, and flights canceled in several northern provinces. Meanwhile, Chinese airlines have started rescheduling routes in anticipation of Ragasa’s arrival. Shenzhen’s ports, which handle large volumes of cargo, are also expected to face delays.
Analysts note that storms of this magnitude highlight the region’s vulnerability to climate-related disasters. Both China and the Philippines experience several typhoons each year, but stronger storms have become more frequent. Governments across Asia have been urged to strengthen disaster response systems and invest in climate resilience.
The impact of Super Typhoon Ragasa comes at a time when other nations in the region are also under strain. In Nepal, for example, authorities have launched an investigation into deadly anti-corruption protests that killed 74 people. While the situations differ, both underscore the urgent challenges Asian governments face in protecting citizens and maintaining stability.
For China, the priority remains the safety of its citizens. Evacuations are expected to expand in the coming hours, with rescue teams on standby. In the Philippines, officials continue to monitor conditions as the storm moves westward. Both countries are bracing for the days ahead, hoping their precautions will limit the impact of Super Typhoon Ragasa.
