Background on Typhoon Ragasa and Its Potential Impact
Typhoon Ragasa, a powerful storm currently approaching southern China, has prompted Hong Kong authorities to issue the maximum alert level. This severe weather warning comes with expectations of strong winds exceeding 118 km/h and heavy rainfall. The typhoon has already caused at least two fatalities, uprooted trees, and dislodged rooftops as it struck northern Philippines, forcing thousands to seek shelter in schools and evacuation centers.
Preparations and Responses
- Alert Level 10: The Hong Kong Observatory issued the tenth typhoon signal at 02:40 on Tuesday, indicating sustained winds of 118 km/h or higher. This alert will remain in effect for an extended period.
- Transport Suspension: Due to the typhoon, all transportation in Hong Kong was halted on Tuesday, and businesses closed.
- Evacuation and Refuge: Authorities urged residents in low-lying areas to be vigilant about potential flooding and opened 46 temporary shelters. Additional protective measures, such as installing barricades and elevated walkways, were also implemented.
- Historical Context: Eric Chan, Hong Kong’s deputy director of operations, warned that Ragasa could reach the intensity levels of Hato (2017) and Mangkhut (2018), both of which caused extensive material damage.
Impact Across Southern China
The approaching typhoon has led to widespread disruptions across southern China, affecting numerous cities and millions of residents.
- School and Transport Cancellations: Authorities in multiple cities, including Hong Kong and Shenzhen, suspended work, school, and transportation. In Hong Kong, schools were closed for two days starting Tuesday, and horse racing events were postponed.
- Air Travel Disruptions: Hong Kong’s international airport will remain open but faces significant flight cancellations, with over 500 expected from Cathay Pacific Airways.
- Community Preparation: Hong Kong’s residents, approximately 7.5 million, rushed to stock up on supplies before Ragasa’s arrival, leading to empty shelves in supermarkets.
- Stockpiling Concerns: Individuals like Zhu Yifan, a 22-year-old Chinese student, expressed understandable worry about the situation. Meanwhile, business owners like Zoe Chan in Wanchai took proactive measures by piling sandbags outside their shops, hoping to mitigate potential water damage.
Scientific Perspective on Intensifying Storms
Meteorologists and climate scientists have noted that typhoons are becoming more intense due to global warming, a consequence of human-induced climate change.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is a maximum alert level for a typhoon? It signifies that authorities anticipate extremely strong winds and heavy rainfall, necessitating heightened vigilance and protective measures.
- Why are schools and transportation being suspended? These measures aim to ensure public safety by minimizing exposure to hazardous weather conditions.
- What precautions should residents take? Residents are advised to stay informed, prepare emergency kits, and follow official guidance regarding evacuation or sheltering in place.
- How does climate change relate to typhoon intensity? As global temperatures rise, storm systems can draw more energy from warmer ocean waters, potentially leading to stronger and more destructive typhoons.
