Typhoon Ragasa Strikes Southern China: 14 Lives Lost in Taiwan as Powerful Storm Hits Coastal Cities

A powerful typhoon has recently caused devastating flooding in Taiwan, leaving many missing and at least 14 confirmed dead. This massive storm is now making its way towards densely populated cities in southern China, including Hong Kong and Shenzhen, packing hurricane-force winds and heavy rain.

Typhoon Ragasa, which emerged as the strongest storm of the year, has already caused chaos in the Philippines and Taiwan. It triggered landslides, gigantic waves, and forced over a million people to evacuate in southern China.

In Taiwan’s Hualien County, a lake overflowed, leading to severe flooding that resulted in numerous fatalities. Rescue operations continue as efforts are made to locate those still missing.

As Ragasa neared Hong Kong, it brought fierce winds that tore down trees and damaged structures, with gusts hitting up to 168 kilometers per hour (about 104 mph). Videos shared online showed waves crashing into hotels and flooding streets.

The Hong Kong Observatory issued its highest hurricane warning, and citizens prepared for storm surges that might reach four meters. Schools and businesses temporarily shut down, and public transport was halted to ensure safety.

Other cities along the southern coast are preparing for the storm’s impact. By Tuesday, the southern Guangdong province had evacuated over a million residents. Additionally, more than 10,000 vessels were moved to safer waters, and 38,000 firefighters stood ready, according to state media.

This highly populated region is typically well-prepared for such storms. In fact, Hong Kong has invested heavily in infrastructure to manage severe weather, including a $3.8 billion drainage system that helps mitigate flooding—a problem that caused significant devastation in the past.

Interestingly, 2025 has been an especially tumultuous year for storms. Hong Kong usually sees around six typhoons annually, but Ragasa is already the ninth this year, as reported by the City University of Hong Kong.

Typhoon Ragasa initially hit the northern Philippines with Category 5 hurricane intensity, large enough to be visible from space. Although it has weakened somewhat, another storm named Opong is gaining strength in the region.

So far, the Philippine government has reported four deaths related to this storm, though these reports are still being confirmed.

In moments like this, social media plays a significant role in information sharing. Videos and updates flood platforms, allowing people to witness the unfolding disaster and keep themselves informed.

Experts remind us how vital climate preparedness is in such hurricane-prone areas. Continuous investment in infrastructure and education can save lives and reduce economic loss during these extreme weather events.

For more information on emergency preparedness and response strategies, you can visit the [National Weather Service](https://www.weather.gov/) for tips and resources.

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