Typhoon Ragasa Ravages Hong Kong and Southern China After Devastating Philippines and Taiwan

The tropical typhoon Ragasa has wreaked havoc in Hong Kong and southern China after initially striking the Philippines and Taiwan. As of this morning, the storm has claimed at least 18 lives, including 14 in Taiwan and 4 in the Philippines. Thousands have been displaced, and over a hundred individuals are reported missing. In Taiwan, the storm led to significant flooding, particularly affecting the city of Guangfu and nearby areas in Hualien County, a popular tourist destination. The army has deployed 340 soldiers to aid in the rescue efforts, and currently, 124 people are unaccounted for. Heart-wrenching video footage shows a destroyed bridge near Guangfu, a stark reminder of nature's destructive force. Meanwhile, in Hong Kong, the typhoon has caused considerable flooding in several streets and residential neighborhoods. Reports indicate about 30 injuries, and Hong Kong International Airport has suspended operations, resulting in the cancellation of hundreds of flights. To mitigate the situation, residents prepared by stockpiling food and fortifying their homes against potential damage. The city administration has responded by raising the alert level to maximum, closing shops and transport services, and opening 49 temporary shelters to accommodate distressed residents. Authorities are bracing for waves as high as three meters, and the typhoon is predicted to continue its path toward Guangdong province, which has already seen nearly 2 million people evacuated from its population of over 125 million. Schools, transportation services, and shops in the region remain closed as safety measures are prioritized amidst the emergency. As the storm continues to unfold, communities are urged to stay informed and prepare for further potential impacts. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2