Super Typhoon Ragasa, identified as the most powerful storm of 2025, has caused widespread devastation across Southeast Asia. The cyclone rapidly intensified into a Category 5 super typhoon, with sustained winds reaching 165 mph, fueled by exceptionally warm sea surface temperatures.
The typhoon first made landfall in the northern Philippines on September 22, 2025, bringing torrential rains, strong gales, and significant flooding. Authorities initiated large-scale evacuations, with thousands seeking shelter due to warnings of storm surges potentially exceeding 10 feet. The storm's destructive path extended to Taiwan, Hong Kong, and various regions of China.
In Hong Kong, the issuance of a Storm Warning Signal No. 8 led to the suspension of classes, halting of flights, and closure of businesses. Experts attribute Ragasa's intensification to a combination of factors, including high sea surface temperatures, minimal vertical wind shear, and optimal atmospheric humidity, allowing it to achieve wind speeds of up to 270 km/h, earning it the nickname "King of Storms" from China's Meteorological Administration. Its intensity has drawn comparisons to typhoons Hato (2017) and Mangkhut (2018).
The Philippines reported at least three fatalities and thousands displaced, with extensive infrastructure damage and closures of schools and government offices. In China, Shenzhen alone ordered the evacuation of approximately 400,000 residents from low-lying and coastal areas. Hong Kong experienced significant disruption, with hundreds of flights cancelled by carriers such as Cathay Pacific and HK Express, and a widespread shutdown of services.
As of September 23, 2025, Super Typhoon Ragasa began to weaken after making landfall in China but continued to pose risks of residual rainfall and flooding. Relief efforts are underway, underscoring the importance of robust preparedness and coordinated responses to extreme weather events. The proactive measures taken by communities and authorities highlight a growing emphasis on resilience in the face of intensifying weather patterns.