Super Typhoon Ragasa, the strongest storm of the year, has left at least 14 people dead in Taiwan, flooded parts of Hong Kong, and triggered the evacuation of over one million people in southern China. The storm, with winds exceeding 195 km/h, brought torrential rains and massive waves to densely populated coastal areas across East Asia.
In Taiwan, heavy rainfall caused a barrier lake to overflow in Hualien County, sending a surge of floodwater through towns and collapsing bridges. Authorities confirmed 14 fatalities, with more residents missing or stranded in remote areas, reports agencies.
In Hong Kong, officials issued the highest typhoon signal as Ragasa lashed the city with hurricane-force winds and coastal flooding. Waves crashed into seaside neighborhoods, flooding roads and properties. More than 700 residents took shelter in emergency centers.
Southern China is bracing for landfall, expected Wednesday night along Guangdong’s coast. Authorities in cities including Shenzhen and Zhuhai shut down schools, suspended transport, and evacuated over a million residents. China issued its highest marine warning, anticipating storm surges and rainfall of up to 45 cm.
Ragasa has already caused damage in the Philippines and continues to pose a severe threat to millions across the region.
