Typhoon Ragasa brought chaos to southern China, forcing residents to wade — and in some cases swim — through flooded city streets.

The super typhoon, among the strongest in recent years, unleashed towering waves that crashed over Hong Kong’s promenades, rising higher than lampposts. Public transportation and daily activities came to a standstill as authorities braced for further flooding and storm surges.

Before reaching China, Ragasa had already left a deadly trail of destruction in Taiwan and the Philippines, damaging homes, cutting power, and displacing thousands of families. Emergency crews across the region are now working to clear debris and restore essential services.

Authorities continue to warn residents to remain vigilant, as rainfall and flood risks may persist even after the storm moves further inland.