The observatory lowered the Hurricane Signal No. 10 at 1.20pm on Wednesday, after it was in force for 10 hours and 40 minutes – the second longest T10 on record.

Ragasa had passed around 120 km to the south of Hong Kong as a Super Typhoon earlier in the morning, bringing gusts of wind exceeding 200 km per hour to some exposed and offshore areas, while a wide swathe of the territory was buffeted by 100 km/h-plus winds.

It was later downgraded to a Severe Typhoon after 1pm.

Forecasters warned people against letting down their guard, saying the region is still being affected by strong winds.

"Gale to storm force southeasterly winds are still affecting many places of the territory," the observatory said.

"The No. 8 Gale or Storm Signal is expected to remain in force before 8pm tonight. Depending on the extent of weakening of local winds, the Observatory will then consider issuing the Strong Wind Signal, No. 3."

Authorities received 437 reports of fallen trees as of noon, while there there 15 reports of flooding and one landslide by 1pm. The Hospital Authority said 62 people had sought treatment at accident and emergency units at public hospitals by noon.

The storm also caused major storm surges – sending waves crashing through the glass doors of an upscale Aberdeen hotel.

The water level in Victoria Harbour was measured as high as around 3.4 metres above chart datum.

Tai Po Kau and Tsim Bei Tsui saw water levels of around 3.8 metres above chart datum, though forecasters say water levels will fall progressively in the afternoon.

By 1pm, Ragasa was centred about 170 km southwest of Hong Kong, moving towards the western coast of Guangdong.

The T10 signal was issued at 2.40am on Wednesday, when Ragasa was centred around 130km away from Hong Kong.

Only Typhoon York, which struck the city in 1999, resulted in a T10 that lasted longer – by just 20 minutes.
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Last updated: 2025-09-24 HKT 14:36