Super Typhoon Ragasa is forcing the complete closure of four major airports across South China, including Hong Kong International Airport.
The airports of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Macau, and Guangzhou will suspend operations on September 24, 2025, as Super Typhoon Ragasa brings devastating winds and torrential rain to the economically vital Pearl River Delta region.
The closure schedule reflects the storm’s projected path and intensity across the region:
- Guangzhou (Canton), China: Closed from September 24, 2025, 03:00 to September 24, 2025, 18:00 (15-hour closure)
- Hong Kong International Airport: Closed from September 24, 2025, 00:00 to September 25, 2025, 00:00 (24-hour closure)
- Macau International Airport: Closed from September 24, 2025, 03:00 to September 25, 2025, 00:00 (21-hour closure)
- Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport: Closed from September 24, 2025, 00:00 to September 24, 2025, 21:00 (21-hour closure)
Super Typhoon Ragasa’s Impact
Super Typhoon Ragasa represents one of the most powerful storms to threaten the Pearl River Delta in recent years, with meteorologists warning of extreme winds, flooding, and potentially catastrophic storm surge conditions across the densely populated region.
The coordinated airport closures demonstrate the severity of the threat posed by Ragasa, as aviation authorities prioritize safety over the massive economic and operational disruption caused by shutting down some of Asia’s busiest airports.
Hong Kong: 24-Hour Complete Shutdown
Hong Kong International Airport, one of the world’s busiest cargo and passenger hubs, faces the longest closure period of 24 hours. The airport typically handles over 400 flights daily and serves as a critical connection point between Asia and the rest of the world.
The extended closure reflects Hong Kong’s particular vulnerability to Ragasa’s projected track, with the typhoon expected to bring sustained winds potentially exceeding 150 km/h and dangerous storm surge conditions to Hong Kong’s coastal areas.
Recovery Timeline
While scheduled reopening times have been announced, actual resumption of operations will depend on post-storm damage assessments and runway safety inspections. Airport authorities typically conduct comprehensive infrastructure checks before declaring facilities safe for aircraft operations.
The staggered reopening schedule, with Guangzhou scheduled to reopen first at 18:00 on September 24, suggests authorities are planning for the storm to move through the region in a predictable pattern.
