The Hong Kong Observatory issued the Hurricane Signal No. 10 at 2.40am on Wednesday as one of the most powerful typhoons of 2025 approached Hong Kong, bringing hurricane-force winds to the territory.

As of 5 am, Super Typhoon Ragasa was centred around 120 km south of Hong Kong, and is forecast to move at around 22 km/h towards western Guangdong.

The observatory said the storm would be closest to the territory "in the next few hours", passing around 100 kilometres to the south of Hong Kong.

In a statement, the observatory warned that the storm poses a "serious threat to Hong Kong."

“Hurricane force winds are currently affecting the southern part of the territory and high ground,” it said.

“As Ragasa further edges near, its hurricane force winds will affect more areas of Hong Kong.

“Members of the public should be on high alert and beware of destructive winds. The Hurricane Signal, No. 10 will remain in force for some time.”

It also warned people to stay away from exposed windows and doors, and as winds change direction, areas that were previously sheltered may become exposed.

Forecasters have recorded hurricane-force winds at Tate's Cairn, Waglan Island and Green Island – with sustained winds in excess of 130 km per hour and maximum gusts of up to 182 km/h.

The strongest wind measured in Hong Kong so far was a 208 km/h gust at the Hong Kong Sea School.

It wasn't just remote areas that saw strong winds – North Point has been subjected to maximum sustained winds of 91 km/h, with gusts of up to 134 km/h.

Tseung Kwan O, Kai Tak, King’s Park, Sai Kung, Wong Chuk Hang and the Central Pier all recorded wind gusts that exceeded 114 km/h.

Forecasters have also been warning of a storm surge of up to two metres along the coast.

Residents in Tung Chung Bay – one of the areas prone to serious flooding – took steps to protect themselves against Ragasa, including placing sandbags and taping their windows.

Along Shing Mun River in Sha Tin, pedestrians and underpasses were sealed off as water levels rose.

The last time the Observatory issued the highest storm signal was in July when Typhoon Wipha swept through the city. The No. 10 warning was up for nearly seven hours.

As of 4am, the Hospital Authority said five people had sought treatment at the accident and emergency units at public hospitals.

Authorities received 30 reports of fallen trees and one report of a landslide.

KMB and Long Win Bus have suspended all their daytime, late-night and overnight routes, while New Lantao Bus announced it was halting services.

Commercial air travel has been halted for the time being, with only a limited number of cargo flights scheduled for the day.
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The Education Bureau said all schools would remain closed for Wednesday.
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Last updated: 2025-09-24 HKT 05:07