As Super Typhoon Ragasa approaches, Hong Kong is facing the imminent threat of one of the most powerful storms of the year. The Hong Kong Observatory has issued the No 8 warning signal, which signals a significant escalation in the typhoon’s intensity. The storm, with hurricane-force winds reaching speeds of 230 km/h (143 mph) and severe thunderstorms, is expected to hit the region on Tuesday evening and continue through Wednesday morning.

The typhoon’s arrival has triggered widespread flight cancellations, disruptions in transportation, and heightened concerns over the potential for flooding, storm surges, and significant damage to infrastructure. Residents are being urged to stay indoors, and travelers are advised to monitor updates regarding flights and transportation.

Typhoon Ragasa: A Force to Be Reckoned With

Super Typhoon Ragasa, which reached its peak strength on Monday, has been described as the strongest storm the world has encountered in 2025. The typhoon’s maximum wind speeds reached 260 km/h (162 mph), earning it the moniker of the “King of Storms” from the China Meteorological Administration. The storm has already wreaked havoc in East Asia, passing over the Philippines and Taiwan, where flooding and landslides have caused casualties and displacement.

Now, Hong Kong is preparing for its impact, with the storm expected to make landfall on the south China coast, likely near Zhanjiang in Guangdong. While the storm is expected to weaken slightly before landfall due to increased friction as it approaches land, it will remain a very strong typhoon with sustained winds of 155 km/h and gusts up to 220 km/h.

Impact on Hong Kong: Flight Cancellations and Storm Surge Warnings

With Super Typhoon Ragasa approaching, Hong Kong has been bracing for significant disruptions. The Hong Kong Observatory has warned that the storm will cause a significant storm surge, with water levels rising by up to 2 metersaround the Pearl River Estuary and up to 4 to 5 meters near Tolo Harbour. Additionally, waves as high as 14 metersare expected at sea.

As a result, Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) is facing a massive disruption to air travel, with over 700 flights expected to be canceled starting Tuesday evening. Cathay Pacific Airways, Hong Kong’s flag carrier, has canceled 500 flights, while its budget arm, HK Express, has also grounded 100 flights. Hong Kong Airlines has followed suit, canceling around 90 flights, and Greater Bay Airlines, a Hong Kong-based carrier, has suspended at least 23 flights.

With the storm’s projected path affecting key air travel routes, Emirates and Lufthansa are also seeing significant cancellations. These disruptions underscore the growing challenges for both airlines and airport authorities as they prepare to navigate the effects of one of the strongest typhoons in recent memory.

Safety Measures: How Hong Kong is Preparing for Typhoon Ragasa

Hong Kong authorities have been working tirelessly to ensure that preparations for Super Typhoon Ragasa are in place. In addition to the storm surge warnings, the Hong Kong Observatory has issued guidelines to help residents and businesses protect themselves. Local authorities have prepared emergency shelters for displaced individuals and have ensured that emergency response teams are in place for quick deployment when the storm hits.

The city’s public transport system, including buses and ferries, has been suspended in anticipation of the storm’s impact. As floodwaters rise and winds increase, the risk of damaged roads and infrastructure is high, and authorities are taking measures to minimize the risks to the population.

For those in Hong Kong, the immediate priority is safety. Residents have been urged to stay indoors, avoid coastal areas, and refrain from unnecessary travel. The city’s hospitals and emergency services are on high alert, and resources are being mobilized to handle potential emergencies.

Regional Impact: The Aftermath of Ragasa in the Philippines and Taiwan

Before reaching Hong Kong, Super Typhoon Ragasa caused widespread damage in both the Philippines and Taiwan. The typhoon hit the Philippines, causing severe flooding and landslides, particularly in Luzon, the country’s most populous island. According to reports, at least three people were killed, and thousands of people were displaced due to the storm’s heavy rainfall and strong winds.

Taiwan also faced the wrath of Ragasa, with southern and eastern parts of the island being hardest hit. Several citiesexperienced significant disruptions, and at least six people were reported injured. Despite this, Taiwan was largely spared from the worst of the storm, and the island was able to begin recovery efforts more quickly than the Philippines.

As Ragasa continues its journey towards China, the typhoon is expected to weaken slightly, but its impact on Guangdong and Hong Kong will still be severe. In these regions, widespread power outages, flooding, and structural damage are expected, with officials preparing for potential evacuations and relief efforts.

Affected Airlines: How Travelers Are Impacted

The impact of Super Typhoon Ragasa on travel has been significant, with airlines and airports working under immense pressure to handle the situation. Hong Kong International Airport has been forced to cancel hundreds of flights due to the storm’s unpredictable nature, with airlines such as Cathay Pacific, Emirates, and Lufthansa all affected by the closures. Travelers who were scheduled to fly to Hong Kong have been advised to check the status of their flights and contact their airlines for alternative arrangements.

For those who were already in Hong Kong or were planning to travel, delays and cancellations are expected to continue as the storm passes. Travelers are encouraged to stay updated on the real-time flight status through the airlines’ websitesor the Hong Kong Airport website.

Moving Forward: Recovery and Resilience

Once Super Typhoon Ragasa passes, Hong Kong and other affected regions will begin the long process of recovery. Airport authorities and airlines will work together to restore normal operations, but the impact of the storm will likely be felt for several days. As the typhoon weakens, authorities will focus on clearing debris, restoring power, and ensuring the safety of residents and travelers.

This event also serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities that airports and airlines face when dealing with extreme weather events like typhoons. Hong Kong’s ability to recover quickly from Ragasa will depend on the resilience of its infrastructure, emergency preparedness, and collaboration between local authorities and international partners.