Published on: September 22, 2025, 04:22h.
Updated on: September 22, 2025, 04:23h.
- Typhoon Ragasa is heading towards Macau
- Casinos in Macau will close later today
Macau is preparing for a powerful tropical storm that may require many residents to seek shelter.
Typhoon Ragasa, the 18th storm of the 2025 season, is heading towards Hong Kong and Macau, the two Special Administrative Regions (SAR) of China. The storm is currently moving northwest of the Philippines towards the Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macau Greater Bay Area.
Currently, meteorologists expect Ragasa to skirt just south of Hong Kong and Macau, making landfall between Yangjiang and Zhanjiang. The Macau SAR Government is actively monitoring the situation.A Typhoon No. 1 Signal has been issued for Macau, indicating initial tropical cyclone activity with potential strong winds. Officials expect to elevate the alert to Signal No. 3 later today (Sept. 23), predicting wind gusts of over 60 MPH.
Macau operates on a 12-hour advance from Eastern Standard Time in the US.
Casino Closures Announced
Macau’s weather officials indicate a “high” likelihood that a Typhoon Signal 8 will be enacted this afternoon or evening.
This warning signifies hurricane-level winds and is just two levels below the maximum level No. 10 on the Typhoon Signal System. The Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau suggests a significant possibility that Ragasa could escalate to a No. 10 event.
Once the No. 8 warning is in effect, all casinos in Macau will be required to close.
In preparation for Super Typhoon Ragasa, casinos will shut down upon the issuance of Typhoon Signal No. 8 to prioritize the safety of employees, tourists, and visitors. The Government will announce such closures in advance,” stated Macau’s Secretary for Economy and Finance Tai Kin Ip.
The gaming authority noted that compliance with the shutdown order is mandatory for all gaming licenses to ensure an orderly evacuation of staff and guests. Establishments must close at least two hours prior to the No. 8 Signal activation, as specified by the local government.
Officials emphasize their commitment to maintaining the stability of essential services such as water, electricity, telecommunications, and natural gas during the storm.
“Storm surges could likely result in flooding in certain low-lying areas. The government has implemented contingency plans to closely monitor flooding risks to electrical facilities and will enact power disconnections if necessary, notifying residents in advance to allow for adequate preparation,” the announcement elaborated.
Risk of Severe Damage
The Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau cautions that Ragasa may bring intense rainfall and thunderstorms, with potential storm surges affecting the coastline and lower elevation areas.
Residents and visitors are urged to charge electronic devices fully, gather non-perishable food and beverages, and prepare a first-aid kit along with essential medications within easy reach.
The last significant typhoon to impact Macau was Hato in August 2017, which resulted in 10 casualties. Fortunately, the gaming hub has been spared from similarly devastating storms in recent years.