Destruction in Typhoon's Wake: Ragasa Hits China After Tragedy in Taiwan

Fri Oct 10 2025 22:34:22 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

As Typhoon Ragasa makes landfall in China, it follows a devastating event in Taiwan where 17 lives were lost due to severe flooding. With nearly two million evacuated in anticipation, authorities brace for further impact from the typhoon's winds and rain.

Typhoon Ragasa has made landfall in southern China, prompting evacuations and emergency measures. The storm, initially categorized as a super typhoon, downgraded but remains highly destructive, leaving 17 dead in Taiwan due to prior flooding. Across southern China, cities prepare for severe weather and potential disasters as Ragasa moves inland, continuing a trail of devastation across the region.

Typhoon Ragasa has made landfall in southern China, where nearly two million people have been evacuated in preparation for its arrival.

It comes after authorities said at least 17 people had been killed and more missing in Taiwan after a lake burst on Tuesday, causing severe flooding in the island's east.

Ragasa was downgraded from super to severe typhoon on Wednesday but it remains highly destructive, with top winds of 241km/h (150mph) recorded in Taishan county in China's southern Guangdong province.

The equivalent of a Category 5 hurricane, Ragasa is the world's strongest storm this year and has been roaring over the South China Sea for days.

Ahead of making landfall, 90 people were injured in Hong Kong as the storm skirted its coastline, according to local authorities.

The typhoon made landfall on the coast of Hailing Island, Yanjiang City in Guangdong at about 17:00 local time (9:00 GMT) on Wednesday, according to Chinese state media.

It crossed the mainland with sustained winds of 144km/h and higher gusts, with rainfall expected to continue across the regions for several days.

In Taiwan, Premier Cho Jung-Tai has demanded an inquiry as they reckon with the devastation and respond to claims that evacuation measures were inadequate, leading to catastrophic losses.

Reports indicate that authorities are working tirelessly to recover the missing and provide support to affected residents in Hualien, where floodwaters have caused severe disruptions.

As preparations in southern China continue amidst anticipated rainfall and wind damage, the government has cautioned against landslides and urged citizens to remain vigilant.