Hong Kong Issues Highest Warning as Super Typhoon Ragasa Nears

Hong Kong Braces for Direct Hit as Super Typhoon Ragasa Triggers Maximum Alert.Hong Kong raised its typhoon warning to Signal No. 10 early Wednesday. This is the city’s highest storm alert. Super Typhoon Ragasa is moving dangerously close to the financial hub.The Hong Kong Observatory issued the warning as the storm’s core approached. According to the agency, destructive winds and severe flooding are expected. The storm is the most powerful to threaten the region in years.

Immediate Impacts and Widespread Disruption

The observatory warned residents to stay indoors immediately. It forecast storm surges of up to two meters. Coastal areas are at high risk of significant flooding.All passenger flights at Hong Kong International Airport were suspended. This suspension began Tuesday evening and lasts for 36 hours. Nearly half of all scheduled flights have already been canceled.Business and transport across southern China have ground to a halt. Schools and offices are closed in multiple cities. Rail services throughout Guangdong province are suspended indefinitely.

Comparing Ragasa to Past Storms

Meteorologists are comparing Ragasa to 2018’s Typhoon Mangkhut. That storm caused billions in damages across Hong Kong. Ragasa could produce a similar, if not greater, storm surge.The storm has already caused significant disruption across Southeast Asia. It skirted the northern Philippines, forcing thousands to evacuate. Taiwan also reported power outages and school closures.Ragasa is expected to weaken after making landfall in mainland China. Its path is then forecast to take it towards northern Vietnam. Authorities there have pre-positioned hundreds of thousands of military personnel for rescue operations.

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The city is facing a severe and prolonged weather crisis. Officials urge extreme caution as Super Typhoon Ragasa passes. The full economic impact will not be known for days.

Dropping this nugget your way

Q1: What is a Signal No. 10 warning?

A Signal No. 10 is the highest typhoon warning in Hong Kong. It means hurricane-force winds are expected or already affecting the region. The public is advised to stay in a safe place indoors.

Q2: How long will the typhoon affect Hong Kong?

The Hong Kong Observatory stated the highest warning would remain for some time. The most intense conditions are expected to last for several hours as the storm’s core passes. The overall severe weather may continue into Thursday.

Q3: Are flights canceled at Hong Kong airport?

Yes, all passenger flights are suspended for a 36-hour period. This is a major disruption affecting thousands of travelers. Travelers are advised to contact their airlines directly for rebooking.

Q4: What was the last major typhoon to hit Hong Kong?

Typhoon Mangkhut in 2018 was the last storm of similar intensity. It caused extensive property damage and record-breaking storm surges. Economic losses from Mangkhut were estimated in the hundreds of millions of dollars.

Q5: Where is Typhoon Ragasa headed after China?

The storm is forecast to weaken and move into northern Vietnam. It is expected to bring heavy rain, risking floods and landslides in the Hanoi region. The remnants may also affect parts of Laos.