Post by : Rameen Ariff

Typhoon Ragasa, one of the strongest storms in recent years, struck parts of East and Southeast Asia, causing severe damage and claiming dozens of lives. In Taiwan, heavy rains and floods led to 17 deaths, with rivers overflowing and roads turned into rivers carrying vehicles and furniture away. In northern Philippines, at least 10 people died, including seven fishermen whose boat capsized amid towering waves and strong winds. Tens of thousands were displaced and sought refuge in emergency shelters.

The storm also hit southern China, with Guangdong province relocating more than 2 million people. Maximum gusts of 241 kph (150 mph) were recorded in Chuandao town, with violent winds and torrential rains damaging buildings, uprooting trees, and flooding streets. Hailing Island in Yangjiang city experienced winds of 144 kph (89 mph), while the storm battered coastal areas and disrupted train services in the Guangxi region. Authorities allocated millions of dollars for relief and recovery efforts.

Hong Kong and Macao faced severe impacts as well. Hong Kong recorded maximum sustained winds near 195 kph (120 mph), prompting flight cancellations, school closures, and temporary shelters for hundreds of residents. Strong winds blew off parts of pedestrian bridges, scattered furniture at promenade restaurants, and damaged vessels along the waterfront. About 90 people were injured and treated at hospitals. In Macao, streets were flooded with debris, and rescue teams used inflatable boats to reach stranded residents.

Taiwan’s Hualien County was heavily affected, with a barrier lake overflowing and torrents of muddy water destroying infrastructure. Rescuers worked door-to-door to check on stranded residents, ensuring safety for thousands. The northern Philippines saw massive destruction, especially in Cagayan province, where strong winds and massive waves led to fatalities and missing fishermen. Nearly 700,000 people were affected, with 25,000 seeking government shelter.

Typhoon Ragasa is considered the strongest tropical cyclone in the northwestern Pacific and South China Sea region this year and ranks among the most powerful in decades. Authorities across the affected regions have urged residents to remain vigilant, follow evacuation orders, and prioritize safety amid continued heavy rains and winds.

This deadly storm underscores the increasing intensity of tropical cyclones in Asia and highlights the urgent need for preparedness, effective disaster response, and relief measures to protect lives and property.