Super Typhoon Ragasa Unleashes Widespread Destruction Across Southern China's Guangdong Province

Super Typhoon Ragasa Makes Landfall in Guangdong

Super Typhoon Ragasa, identified as the world's most powerful tropical cyclone of 2025, made landfall in southern China's Guangdong Province on Wednesday, September 24, 2025. The storm struck near Yangjiang city, specifically on Hailing Island, around 5 PM local time, bringing with it sustained winds of up to 145 km/h (90 mph) at landfall. This followed a path of devastation across the Philippines, Taiwan, and Hong Kong.

Extensive Damage and Massive Evacuations

The impact in Guangdong was immediate and severe. Authorities reported widespread destruction, significant power outages affecting over 56,000 households, and extensive flooding across coastal cities. In preparation for the typhoon's arrival, more than 2 million people were evacuated across the province. Cities like Yangjiang and Zhuhai bore the brunt of the storm, with reports of over 50,000 trees destroyed in Yangjiang and 10,000 trees brought down in Zhuhai. Roadside barriers, traffic signs, and other critical infrastructure suffered damage, leading to significant transport disruptions.

Cleanup Efforts Underway Amidst Recovery Operations

As Ragasa weakened and moved westward, massive cleanup operations commenced across Guangdong. Crews utilized excavators to clear thousands of fallen trees and unblock roads, with Zhuhai authorities aiming to clear primary and secondary roads within 24 hours and restore the road environment within 48 hours. The Chinese central government has allocated 200 million yuan (approximately US$27.5 million) for recovery and reconstruction efforts, including repairs to essential infrastructure such as bridges, dams, schools, and hospitals. The emergency management ministry also dispatched tens of thousands of tents, folding beds, and other rescue supplies to aid affected communities. Despite the widespread damage, no typhoon-related casualties were reported in Guangdong by Thursday afternoon.

Prior Devastation Across the Region

Before reaching mainland China, Super Typhoon Ragasa left a trail of severe destruction and casualties in other parts of Asia. In the Philippines, at least 10 to 11 deaths were reported, with nearly 700,000 people affected and 25,000 seeking shelter in government facilities. Taiwan experienced a tragic toll, with 14 confirmed deaths, 32 injured, and 33 people still missing after a barrier lake burst in Hualien County, unleashing a wall of water that devastated Guangfu township. Hong Kong was also severely impacted, enduring ferocious winds, heavy rains, widespread flooding, and a significant storm surge that damaged property, including an upmarket hotel lobby. More than 90 people were reported injured in Hong Kong.