With Typhoon Ragasa bearing down, Hong Kong is bracing for what could be life-threatening conditions beginning Tuesday. By Wednesday, gale-force winds should be on scene. The massive typhoon may have the potential to bring hurricane-level winds offshore and in mountainous regions, leading local governments to take drastic measures.
The Filipino government has actively responded by suspending work and classes. This decision is made for Manila and much of Luzon as a precaution against the approaching Typhoon Karding. She added that this precautionary measure is meant to protect public safety as outer rainbands from the typhoon continue to batter the region. The government cautioned citizens about impending power cuts, landslides, flooding and rough seas, underscoring the storm’s perilous effects.
Preparations in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is experiencing dramatic scenes as people brace for the worst of Typhoon Saola. Supermarket shelves emptied quickly as panic buyers stripped supermarkets bare, with long lines forming outside as people waited to buy food, including a staple like milk. According to one market report, vegetables are now selling for more than three times their average prices at farmers’ markets. This increase is the result of the overwhelming resident need and panic buying in the community.
As the storm approaches, Cathay Pacific has announced plans to cancel over 500 flights in anticipation of the severe weather conditions. Hong Kong International Airport will be closed from 8 PM on September 23 until 8 AM on September 25. This indefinite closure makes it very difficult for thousands of passengers to plan any kind of travel.
“We are taking all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of our passengers and staff,” – Cathay Pacific spokesperson.
Impact in the Philippines
The state of democracy in the Philippines is just as dire. Typhoon Ragasa recently brought torrential downpours and high winds across the country’s northernmost tip. Due to this, more than 10,000 people are currently taking shelter in schools and evacuation centers. Local officials are working around the clock to keep residents safe and supported with the impact of this storm.
Taiwan, currently in the midst of smaller-scale evacuations as Typhoon Haikui approaches, Tucson Residents are encouraged to monitor the situation as these weather conditions continue to develop. The Babuyan Islands, which sit only around 740 kilometers south of Taiwan, are on heightened alert. The typhoon is still moving toward them.
Shenzhen, a Chinese megacity largely in the direct path of the storm’s track, is preparing for a mass evacuation of the region’s residents.
“The city plans to relocate and resettle approximately 400,000 people, including those residing in temporary shelters, low-lying areas, and coastal regions,” – Shenzhen’s Emergency Management WeChat account.
Warnings and Future Outlook
For the past weeks, authorities from all over the affected areas have been reiterating the need for preparedness as Typhoon Ragasa nears. Severe weather alerts have been posted across the state for potential landslides and flooding, especially in flooded areas.
Local officials continue to monitor weather conditions closely and have urged residents to stay informed about updates and evacuation procedures. As the typhoon gets nearer, communities are bracing themselves least of all, and best prepared to return with urgent frequency to the natural state of equilibrium in that place.
