Manila: The strongest storm anywhere in the world this year is passing over the northern Philippines with destructive winds and torrential rain, prompting evacuations of thousands of people and preparations in nearby Hong Kong, Taiwan and mainland China, CNN reported.
With wind gusts reaching up to 230 km/h (143 mph), Ragasa is projected to move westward toward southern China, according to the BBC.
The Philippine weather agency has warned of a “high risk of life-threatening storm surge,” with waves potentially surpassing three meters (10 feet) in height.
JUST IN: Weather bureau PAGASA, in a bulletin posted at 2:20 p.m. Monday (Sept. 22, 2025), says Super Typhoon Nando may pass very close or make landfall over Calayan Island between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.
The cyclone was last tracked over the coastal waters of Babuyan Island,… pic.twitter.com/iv5oHpIzxm
— Philippine News Agency (@pnagovph) September 22, 2025
In response, schools and government offices in many areas—including the capital, Manila—have been closed. Officials have cautioned about the likelihood of flooding, landslides, and significant damage to infrastructure and homes.
The storm is expected to first impact the Batanes and Babuyan islands, remote regions with a combined population of around 20,000 people, many of whom live in poverty. These islands are located approximately 740 km (460 miles) south of Taiwan.
While Ragasa is not anticipated to strike Taiwan directly, heavy rains are forecast to hit the island’s eastern coast.
In Hualien County, nearly 300 people have already been evacuated. Authorities have also closed forests and nature trails in southern and eastern Taiwan, and suspended certain ferry services.
Flight disruptions
Air travel is being significantly disrupted. Cathay Pacific, based in Hong Kong, announced Monday that it plans to cancel over 500 flights due to the storm’s projected path. Operations at Hong Kong International Airport will be suspended from 6:00 pm on September 23 and are expected to resume during daylight hours on Thursday, a spokesperson said.
Officials in China’s Guangdong province have urged residents to brace for a potentially large-scale disaster, with the effects of the storm—strong winds and heavy rainfall—anticipated as early as Tuesday.
In Hong Kong, worsening weather conditions are expected on Tuesday, with local authorities considering school closures.
