Super Typhoon Ragasa to hit Philippines at a speed of 230 kmph, cause massive devastation
Super Typhoon Ragasa will hit the Philippines at a speed of 230 kilometers per hour, causing massive damage. Typhoon Ragasa will hit the Babuyan Islands in the Philippines, home to approximately 20,000 people.
Thousands of people have been evacuated due to the storm in the Philippines. Local authorities have said the storm could be "devastating."
The storm, named "Ragasa," is moving toward the Philippines at a speed of 230 kilometers per hour.
Super Typhoon Ragasa Threatens the Philippines and Surrounding Areas
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered the disaster response agency to be fully prepared as Super Typhoon Ragasa approaches the northern part of the country. This storm has also caused warnings across East and Southeast Asia.
Ragasa has strong winds of 215 kmph and gusts up to 295 kmph. It has slightly intensified as it passed Babuyan Island and is moving toward Calayan Island, raising concerns about storm surges, according to the weather agency.
High storm warning
Babuyan Islands are under a high storm warning, and residents are advised to stay away from coastal areas and riverbanks. Videos from disaster agencies show strong winds and heavy rain in northern Cagayan province, causing large waves and trees to sway dangerously.
Warnings of landslides, floods, and dangerous sea conditions issued
The government has suspended work and classes in Metro Manila and many parts of Luzon as heavy rain begins to hit the area. Warnings of power outages, landslides, floods, and dangerous sea conditions have been issued.
24 domestic flights cancelled
Airlines have canceled about 24 domestic flights, mainly affecting Luzon’s main hubs, and ferry services have been suspended at ports.
Taiwan issues warnings
While Ragasa is not expected to hit Taiwan directly, its outer bands may bring heavy rain to the eastern coast. Taiwan has issued warnings and canceled 146 domestic flights, evacuating over 900 people from mountainous areas.
Vietnam’s defense ministry is monitoring the storm and preparing for possible landfall later this week. Chinese authorities are also taking flood control measures in southern provinces, warning of heavy rain starting Tuesday night.
36-hour airport shutdown in Taiwan
In Hong Kong, there will be a 36-hour airport shutdown beginning Tuesday evening. Residents have started stocking up on essentials, leading to long lines at supermarkets, with some products like milk already sold out and vegetable prices rising significantly.
Typhoon Ragasa is expected to reach the northern islands on Monday. It will then move west toward South China.
Waves up to three meters high are expected
The Philippine Meteorological Department says waves up to three meters (10 feet) high are expected due to the storm.
Schools and government offices have been closed in many areas of the country, including the capital, Manila.