Super Typhoon Ragasa, the most powerful tropical cyclone of 2025, has left a trail of devastation across Asia. After causing significant damage in Taiwan, the typhoon made landfall in southern China, prompting widespread evacuations and severe weather alerts.
Impact in Taiwan
In Taiwan, Ragasa triggered a catastrophic flood when the Matai’an Creek Barrier Lake burst its banks in Hualien County. The resulting deluge submerged the town of Guangfu, leading to at least 17 confirmed deaths and 17 individuals still missing. The flooding destroyed infrastructure and displaced thousands of residents. Many locals expressed frustration over insufficient evacuation warnings prior to the disaster.
Devastation in Hong Kong
As Ragasa approached Hong Kong, the city experienced violent winds and torrential rain. The storm injured over 90 people, canceled more than 700 flights, and forced the closure of major businesses and transport services. Notably, Hong Kong Disneyland and casinos in Macau suspended operations.
Southern China Braces for Impact
The typhoon made landfall over Hailing Island in Guangdong province, China, with sustained winds reaching 241 km/h (150 mph). In response, nearly 2 million people were evacuated from the region, and authorities issued a rare red storm surge warning, forecasting waves up to 2.8 meters along parts of the Guangdong coast. Cities like Shenzhen closed all schools and offices, suspending public transportation.
Global Context
Typhoon Ragasa is the 18th named storm of the 2025 Pacific typhoon season and the first super typhoon of the year. It intensified rapidly over unusually warm Pacific waters, reaching peak sustained winds of 265 km/h (165 mph). The storm’s path has caused widespread concern about the increasing frequency and intensity of such natural disasters
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