MANILA/SHENZHEN — Authorities across East and Southeast Asia have ordered large-scale evacuations and closures as Super Typhoon Ragasa barrels toward southern China after battering the northern Philippines.

Philippines: Tens of Thousands Displaced

More than 10,000 residents in northern Luzon have been evacuated to schools and emergency shelters, according to the Philippines’ disaster management agency. Government offices and schools in 29 provinces were shut down, with authorities warning of storm surges of up to three meters, flash floods and landslides.

“Safety remains our priority,” said Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., who oversees the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council. “We urge residents to comply with evacuation orders and stay in designated safe zones until the storm passes.”

Ferry services and dozens of flights have been suspended. Regional governors have ordered food packs, water, and medical aid to be stockpiled at evacuation centers.

China: Shenzhen Leads Evacuations

In Shenzhen, local officials announced the relocation of about 400,000 people from coastal and low-lying areas as the storm moves closer to Guangdong Province. Neighboring provinces, including Fujian and Hainan, have raised storm alerts and suspended schools, factories and public transport.

“The risk of flooding and storm surge is extremely high,” said Shenzhen’s emergency management office in a public statement. “Residents must move to higher ground immediately.”

Wider Regional Impact

• Taiwan evacuated more than 900 people from vulnerable areas, canceled hundreds of flights, and issued sea warnings.
• Hong Kong prepared for the arrival of strong winds and heavy rains, with supermarkets crowded as residents stocked up on food and water. Officials warned of significant flight cancellations beginning Tuesday evening.
• Vietnam has placed coastal provinces on high alert, though direct landfall there is not expected.

Storm Strength and Forecast

Meteorologists classified Ragasa as a super typhoon, with sustained winds of 215 km/h (134 mph) and gusts up to 265 km/h (165 mph). The storm is projected to make landfall between Shanwei, Guangdong and Wenchang, Hainan late Wednesday. Rainfall of up to 280 mm is forecast in parts of southern China.

The next 48 hours will be critical

Emergency services across the region remain on high alert. “The next 48 hours will be critical,” warned the Hong Kong Observatory, urging residents across the Pearl River Delta to avoid non-essential travel.

Authorities in both the Philippines and China said they would continue to monitor conditions and provide updates. Relief agencies are mobilizing to assist displaced families once the storm passes. (zai)