TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Typhoon Ragasa (樺加沙) hit Taiwan's Hengchun (恆春) Peninsula Monday (Sept. 22) at 11 a.m., threatening further intensification. The Central Weather Administration (CWA, 氣象署), Taiwan's weather agency, reports the storm's center sits southeast of Eluanbi (鵝鑾鼻), moving west-northwest as its storm circle approaches Taiwan's southeastern coast.
The weather agency identified Hualien, Taitung, and Hengchun as areas experiencing the heaviest rainfall, while Orchid Island (蘭嶼), Green Island (綠島), and Taitung face stronger winds. Meteorologist Zeng Chao-cheng (曾昭誠) warned coastal areas in northeastern Taiwan, Keelung's north coast, Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu will experience increased wind strength. The typhoon continues tracking west-northwest across Taiwan's southern regions.
Typhoon Ragasa poses significant threats to Taitung, Pingtung, Hengchun, and Kaohsiung counties as the storm intensifies. Weather officials expect the typhoon to strengthen slightly while expanding its storm circle across southern Taiwan. Emergency preparations continue as authorities monitor the storm's path and potential impact on populated areas. ◼