Typhoon Ragasa Hits Southern China After Causing Devastation in Taiwan

Fri Oct 17 2025 03:27:57 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Typhoon Ragasa has made landfall in southern China following severe flooding in Taiwan that resulted in at least 17 fatalities. Authorities are on high alert as nearly two million people have been evacuated.

Typhoon Ragasa, downgraded to a severe typhoon, has made landfall in southern China's Guangdong province after causing devastation in Taiwan, where severe flooding has led to at least 17 deaths. Nearly two million people were evacuated in preparation for the storm's impact, which includes high winds and torrential rains, while authorities in Taiwan demand investigations into the disaster response.

Typhoon Ragasa has made landfall in southern China, where nearly two million people have been evacuated in preparation for its arrival. It follows a deadly sequence of events in Taiwan, where at least 17 individuals lost their lives and more are reported missing after heavy flooding caused by a lake burst.

Authorities reported that Ragasa was downgraded from a super to a severe typhoon, but it remains highly destructive, with wind speeds recorded at 241km/h (150mph) in the Taishan county of Guangdong province. It is recognized as the world's strongest storm of the year, having sustained significant power over the South China Sea.

In anticipation of the storm, injuries were reported in Hong Kong, where 90 people sustained injuries as the typhoon brushed past the coastline, prompting the hospital authority to advise caution. The typhoon made landfall on Hailing Island in Guangdong around 17:00 local time on Wednesday, bringing further challenges of strong winds and heavy rainfall across the region.

Cities including Zhuhai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou are bracing for seawater intrusion. Police in Zhuhai have been disseminating warnings via sirens and megaphones, urging residents to remain indoors, while red alerts for potential landslides are in effect.

In Taiwan, officials have called for investigations into the delayed evacuation orders that led to the tragic loss of life and property. Premier Cho Jung-Tai expressed the need for clarity, stating, This is not about assigning blame, but about uncovering the truth.”

The situation in Hualien county has been particularly dire, as a barrier lake burst unleashed an estimated 15.4 million tonnes of water, resulting in the collapse of key infrastructures and stranding many individuals. Emergency services continue to search for missing persons amidst the chaotic aftermath.

In addition to its impact on Taiwan and China, Typhoon Ragasa has disrupted daily life in Hong Kong, prompting widespread flight cancellations and business closures as authorities maintain the highest level of storm warning. Overall, Ragasa has proven to be a devastating force in the region, generating significant historical weather events.