Super Typhoon Ragasa, one of the most powerful storms in recent memory, has unleashed widespread devastation across Taiwan, Hong Kong, the Philippines, and southern China, killing at least 18 people and leaving more than a hundred missing.
In Taiwan, 14 fatalities have been confirmed, while over 124 people remain unaccounted for after torrents of muddy floodwaters swept through Guangfu township. Entire bridges were ripped apart, and streets turned into raging rivers carrying away vehicles, furniture, and homes. Winds also tore off parts of rooftops and toppled hundreds of trees, causing power outages across several districts. Hospitals treated dozens for storm-related injuries.
The Philippines reported at least four deaths as landslides and flooding destroyed homes and disrupted communities. Rescue operations are ongoing in remote areas, where communication remains cut off due to heavy rains and blocked roads.
In Hong Kong, dramatic visuals captured the storm’s power, including a massive cloud canopy rolling across the skyline. Waves crashed into a waterfront hotel, flooding its lobby and sweeping away furniture. Authorities suspended schools, businesses, and train services, while over 760 residents were moved into temporary shelters.
As Ragasa moved toward Guangdong, China, authorities issued red alerts for hurricane-force winds and torrential rain. Flights were cancelled, and rail travel was suspended, affecting tens of millions of people across the southern coast.
Meteorologists describe Ragasa as one of the strongest typhoons in recent years, warning that such extreme weather events may grow more frequent and intense due to climate change. Governments across the region have urged people to remain indoors as emergency crews race to restore essential services and carry out rescues in flood-hit areas.
