Tens of thousands of individuals have been relocated in the Philippines as a powerful typhoon wreaks havoc in the region.
Known locally as Nando, Super Typhoon Ragasa struck the northern part of the Philippines with intense winds reaching 270kmph (167mph). Over 10,000 residents were instructed to evacuate their residences and seek refuge in schools and emergency shelters due to the tumultuous nature of the storm.
Authorities issued a life-threatening warning as establishments were compelled to shut down operations. The World Meteorological Center in Beijing cautioned that Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia may encounter “extremely heavy downpours.” The weather service predicted strong winds hitting the Bashi Channel, northern South China Sea, and Beibu Gulf. Southern India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Thailand are also expected to feel the impact.
Multiple airlines have cautioned travelers to brace for disruptions, with Cathay Pacific planning to cancel around 500 flights. The airline announced the suspension of passenger flights arriving at and departing from Hong Kong International Airport, affecting operations until the following day.
Officials have urged vigilance among the populace nationwide. The Philippines Department of the Interior and Local Government emphasized the importance of safety measures, stating that while property can be reconstructed, the loss of lives is irreplaceable.
Typhoon Ragasa is anticipated to bring severe winds to the South China Sea and neighboring areas, as highlighted by experts. The World Meteorological Center Beijing indicated that heavy to torrential rains are expected in regions including the Philippines, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia.
An expert noted a rare occurrence dubbed the “stadium effect” being experienced by residents in a province. Hurricane historian Michael Ferragamo described the phenomenon witnessed by individuals on Babuyan Island, Cagayan, as a unique and extraordinary event.
A video captured the relentless winds causing destruction to homes in Cagayan, with trees swaying and heavy rainfall adding to the chaos. The severity of the weather hindered visibility in the footage.
Cathay Pacific foresees the cancellation of over 500 flights due to the typhoon’s severity. The airline detailed the temporary suspension of operations at Hong Kong International Airport due to the impending storm.
Filipino authorities provided a comprehensive explanation of potential outcomes in the capital, Manila, warning of heavy rainfall and localized flooding. Expected impacts include damage to health facilities, minor injuries, structural damage to buildings, power outages, water service disruptions, and transport disruptions.
Qantas alerted its customers about possible travel disruptions in Hong Kong, stressing the airline’s commitment to customer safety. The airline informed passengers of potential flight impacts and encouraged them to monitor real-time updates.
A striking satellite image illustrated the magnitude of Typhoon Ragasa, emphasizing the storm’s impact on the Philippines. The Colorado State University’s CIRA Center shared the image on social media to showcase the strength of the Category 5 storm.
The Philippines’ weather agency raised concerns about coastal inundation, particularly in northern provinces, warning of life-threatening storm surges exceeding three meters (nearly 10 feet) within the next 24 hours.
With over 10,000 individuals evacuated from their residences, schools and offices were closed in the Philippines and neighboring Taiwan as one of the most potent typhoons of the year posed threats of flooding and landslides.
