On September 23, Hong Kong closed due to the approach of Super Typhoon Ragasa, the most powerful tropical cyclone this year. Authorities urged residents to stay at home, schools and businesses closed and most passenger flights suspended until Thursday, reports Reuters.
People rushed to supermarkets in droves, almost completely emptying the shelves, in preparation for two days of possible store closures. Windows in homes and businesses have been taped shut to reduce the risk of glass damage.
The Hong Kong Observatory has warned that super typhoon Ragasa, with hurricane-force winds of up to 220 km/h, poses a serious threat to the coast of China’s Guangdong province, which borders the city. The cyclone will remain a super typhoon as it approaches the coast of Guangdong, also affecting Hong Kong, mainland China and Taiwan, after it passed the northern Philippines on Monday. It is expected to make landfall between midday and late Wednesday.
Guangdong authorities have evacuated more than 370,000 people. In Hong Kong, an 8th level typhoon was declared, which forced the closure of most businesses and transport services. More than 700 flights were canceled, including to Macau and Taiwan.
The weather is forecast to worsen later Tuesday, and the observatory will determine whether to issue a more severe warning late Wednesday night or early Wednesday. On Wednesday, September 24, hurricane-force winds are expected on the coast and in the highlands, and heavy rains may cause storms and storms.
There are also warnings of rising sea levels similar to typhoons Hato in 2017 and Manghut in 2018, which caused billions of dollars in damage. According to forecasts, the water level along Hong Kong’s coastal areas will rise by about two meters, and in some places it may reach four to five meters, so the observatory is urging residents to take the necessary precautions.
Local authorities distributed sandbags to strengthen houses in low-lying areas, and residents actively stocked up on essentials. Despite the elements, the Hong Kong Stock Exchange will remain open – it changed its policy in late 2024 to continue trading regardless of weather conditions.
