Tropical Storm Ragasa Causes Flooding, Disruption Across Southeast Asia
Tropical Storm Ragasa has moved westward along the southern coast of China towards Vietnam, causing significant flooding and disruption in its wake. On Thursday, September 28, 2023, the storm led to inundated streets and homes in Guangdong province, resulting in substantial damage and loss of life in Taiwan and the Philippines.
In the city of Yangjiang, parts of Guangdong were severely affected, with tree branches floating in flooded streets. Crews deployed excavators to clear thousands of fallen trees and restore access to blocked main roads. According to state broadcaster CCTV, over 50,000 trees were destroyed throughout the city. Strong winds also knocked down road signs, while streets in Zhuhai transformed into rivers, necessitating the use of inflatable boats for rescues. Reports indicated that some first-floor homes were inundated, and by Wednesday night, more than 56,000 households experienced power outages.
As Ragasa approached, over 2 million people were relocated across Guangdong. The storm had initially peaked at super-typhoon strength on Monday, with maximum sustained winds reaching 265 kph (165 mph), marking it as the world’s strongest cyclone of the year. By Thursday morning, Ragasa’s winds had diminished to a maximum of 65 kph (40 mph), and forecasters predicted it would gradually dissipate while continuing to pose a rain threat to Vietnam and other parts of Southeast Asia.
In Vietnam, Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính urged government ministries and local authorities to safeguard critical infrastructure, including dams and hospitals. Preparations included securing fishing vessels and coastal assets, as well as organizing evacuation and search operations. Disruptions in transportation were evident, with several flights canceled or rescheduled, while tree trimming operations commenced in northern regions to mitigate wind hazards.
As conditions improved, activities in Hong Kong, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen began to return to normal. Following the storm, some 1,200 trees were reported down in Hong Kong, leading to scattered large branches on streets. Approximately 100 individuals were treated for injuries related to the storm, and flights resumed after around 1,000 had been disrupted, affecting an estimated 140,000 passengers.
Meanwhile, in Taiwan, authorities revised the death toll from the storm, reducing it from 17 to 14 as records were updated. Most casualties occurred in eastern Hualien County, where heavy rainfall caused a barrier lake to overflow, flooding nearby Guangfu township. Reports detailed that muddy torrents destroyed a bridge and transformed roads into rushing rivers, carrying away vehicles and furniture. Some residents remained uncontacted as rescue efforts continued, with dozens injured across the island.
The Philippines also faced the impact of Ragasa, with at least 11 deaths reported, including seven fishermen who drowned when their boat capsized in northern Cagayan province. As of Thursday, two fishermen were still missing. Compounding the situation, another tropical storm is on the horizon, named Opong in the Philippines and Bualoi elsewhere, which is expected to impact the east-central Philippines on Friday, with forecasters warning it could intensify into a typhoon. This approaching storm currently has sustained winds of up to 110 kph (68 mph) and higher gusts.
As recovery efforts continue across the affected regions, the full extent of Ragasa’s impact is still being assessed. Emergency services remain on high alert, prepared to respond to further challenges as the region copes with the aftermath of this powerful storm.
