China Prepares to Evacuate 400,000 as Typhoon Hits Philippines

Super Typhoon Ragasa struck the northern Philippines on Monday, bringing powerful winds and heavy rain to coastal areas. The storm made landfall on Calayan Island in the Babuyan chain at 3 pm local time. It carried sustained winds of 215 kilometres per hour and gusts up to 295 kph. Residents in northern Luzon sought shelter as strong winds battered homes and roads. Over 10,000 people across the country were evacuated ahead of the storm’s impact.

In response, Philippine authorities closed schools and government offices in Manila and 29 other provinces. Disaster officials warned of severe flooding and landslides in northern Luzon. Weather experts said Ragasa’s massive size and strength could cause widespread damage. Local officials like Cagayan’s disaster chief said teams were “ready for the worst.” The storm came just after public anger erupted over a corruption scandal linked to failed flood control projects.

Meanwhile, China began preparing for large-scale evacuations in southern areas expected to be hit next. In Shenzhen, authorities announced plans to evacuate 400,000 people from coastal and low-lying zones. Several cities in Guangdong province cancelled classes, closed offices, and suspended public transport. Cathay Pacific said over 500 flights would be cancelled as Hong Kong braced for the storm. Flights at Hong Kong International Airport would stop Tuesday evening and resume Thursday.

Taiwan is also feeling the storm’s effects, despite not being directly in Ragasa’s path. The national weather service warned of “extremely torrential rain” in the island’s east. Evacuations are ongoing in Pingtung’s mountainous areas, where landslides are a risk. Officials fear destruction similar to Typhoon Koinu in 2023, which caused severe infrastructure damage. Ragasa’s wide wind field is already affecting Taiwan’s coastline.

The Philippines lies in the Pacific cyclone belt and faces around 20 storms each year. These repeated disasters trap millions in poverty. Scientists warn that stronger storms like Ragasa are linked to climate change. Rising sea temperatures and warming air fuel more intense weather. As Ragasa continues its path toward China, both countries brace for further damage. The storm highlights the urgent need for better disaster preparedness and climate action.