Severe Weather Forces Widespread Disruptions at Hong Kong International Airport As Super Typhoon Ragasa barrels toward southern China, Hong Kong’s flagship airline Cathay Pacific announced on Monday that it expects to cancel more than 500 flights, triggering major travel disruptions across the region.
Major Operational Shutdown Ahead of Storm Impact.
In a press conference held on Monday, a spokesperson for Cathay Pacific confirmed the suspension of operations:
“Beginning at 6:00 PM tomorrow, September 23, Cathay Pacific’s passenger flights to and from Hong Kong International Airport will halt operations until they resume during daylight on Thursday.”
The mass cancellation reflects both the severity of the approaching typhoon and the city’s proactive response to safeguard passengers and staff.
Typhoon Ragasa’s Path and Intensity.
Super Typhoon Ragasa is currently sweeping through the Luzon Strait, situated between southern Taiwan and the northern Philippines, and is expected to make a significant impact on Hong Kong and southern China starting Tuesday.
According to the Philippines’ national weather service, the typhoon recorded:
- Sustained winds: 215 km/h
- Wind gusts: Up to 265 km/h
- Movement: Westward, toward the Babuyan Islands
The Hong Kong Observatory has warned of escalating conditions, forecasting “gale to storm force winds” by Wednesday. Meteorologists also anticipate heavy squally rain and significant storm surges, posing flooding risks to coastal areas.
City-Wide Emergency Preparations Underway.
In response to the impending storm, city officials have initiated several preventive measures:
- Sandbag barriers and flood defenses are being installed in low-lying coastal neighborhoods.
- The Education Bureau has ordered the closure of all schools for Tuesday and Wednesday.
- The Hospital Authority confirmed that public hospitals are activating emergency protocols to ensure uninterrupted emergency services during the storm period.
Looking Ahead
The full impact of Typhoon Ragasa is expected to unfold over the next 48 hours. As a financial and transportation hub, Hong Kong’s temporary shutdown will likely have ripple effects across regional air travel and business operations.
Are You Affected by the Flight Cancellations?
- Have your travel plans been disrupted by Typhoon Ragasa?
- Do you think the city is well-prepared for such extreme weather events?
Share your experience in the comments below. For ongoing updates on this developing story, stay tuned to ReconClick.
