Powerful waves hit the waterfront in Hong Kong’s Heng Fa Chuen area as Super Typhoon Ragasa nears, Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2025. (AP Photo)
Typhoon Ragasa, one of the strongest storms in recent years, hit Hong Kong and southern China early Wednesday. It brought huge waves, fierce winds, and heavy rain that disrupted daily life along the coast.
Severe Impact in Hong Kong
In Hong Kong, the storm woke many residents in the early morning hours. People described strong winds blowing down a kitchen fan and a crane swaying dangerously. Parts of a pedestrian bridge’s roof were ripped off, and trees fell across the city. Flooding affected river areas and waterfront promenades. Thirteen people were treated for injuries in hospitals.
Officials canceled schools and flights. Many shops closed as the city prepared for the storm’s arrival. Hundreds sought shelter in temporary centres set up across Hong Kong and nearby Macao. One person was hurt in Macao.
The Hong Kong Observatory reported Ragasa’s winds near the centre reached about 195 kilometres per hour (120 miles per hour). The typhoon moved westward about 100 kilometres south of Hong Kong, expected to continue moving at about 22 kilometres per hour (14 miles per hour).
Disruptions Across Southern China
In Guangdong province, more than one million people relocated to safer areas. The province’s state broadcaster reported that Ragasa was set to make landfall between the cities of Taishan and Zhanjiang by Wednesday afternoon or evening. Schools, factories, and public transit were shut down in about a dozen cities to prepare for the storm.
Previous Destruction in Taiwan and the Philippines
Before reaching Hong Kong and China, Ragasa caused major damage and loss of life in Taiwan and the Philippines.
In Taiwan, heavy rains caused a barrier lake in Hualien County to overflow. Floodwaters destroyed a bridge and turned roads into rivers carrying away vehicles and furniture. Local officials confirmed 14 people died and 124 were missing in the Guangfu township area. Another 34 people suffered injuries. The self-governed island faced serious flooding and damage.
In the northern Philippines, the typhoon triggered floods and landslides. At least three people died, five were missing, and over 17,500 were forced to leave their homes, officials said.
Typhoon Ragasa has battered several regions in Asia, causing serious damage and forcing evacuations. Hong Kong and southern China are now bracing for its full force as schools and businesses close. The storm left a trail of destruction in Taiwan and the Philippines earlier in the week.
