Super Typhoon Ragasa Slams Philippines: Thousands Evacuated Amid Catastrophic Threat
Super Typhoon Ragasa Slams Philippines: Thousands Evacuated Amid Catastrophic Threat
Super Typhoon Ragasa has begun its devastating impact on the northern Philippines today, Monday, September 22, prompting the immediate evacuation of thousands and widespread closures across the nation. Regional authorities have labeled the storm’s potential as “catastrophic” as it makes landfall, unleashing sustained wind gusts of 230 km/h (143 mph).
The powerful typhoon strikes as the Philippines grapples with the aftermath of weeks of severe monsoon flooding. The Philippine weather bureau has issued critical warnings, highlighting a “high risk of life-threatening storm surge” with peak heights projected to surpass 3 meters (10 feet). In response, schools and government offices, including those in the bustling capital of Manila, have been shut down. Officials are urgently advising residents to brace for extensive flooding, landslides, and significant destruction to homes and vital infrastructure.
The remote Batanes and Babuyan islands, home to around 20,000 residents, lie directly in Ragasa’s path. While Taiwan is not expected to suffer a direct hit, the typhoon’s outer bands are bringing heavy rains to its east coast, leading to nearly 300 evacuations in Hualien county. Forest areas, nature trails, and some ferry services across southern and eastern Taiwan have also been suspended as a precautionary measure.
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