SHENZHEN suspended operations at workplaces, business venues, and markets starting at 2 p.m. yesterday due to Super Typhoon Ragasa, which is expected to land in the coastal areas between Zhuhai and Zhanjiang from midday to late today. Public transportation was suspended at 8 p.m yesterday, and the Metro’s last trains departed at 6 p.m. before stopping services, according to a notice issued yesterday by the city’s flood prevention and disaster relief headquarters. Except for emergency rescue personnel and those essential to maintaining vital services, residents are advised not to go out unless absolutely necessary. All 865 shelters across the city are now open to the public. To support expats who need assistance during the typhoon, the Shekou Management and Service Center for Expats has opened a 24-hour service hotline: 0755-26678381, 15602930603. Shenzhen has ordered all units responsible for public services and disaster relief to take measures to ensure the supply of water, electricity, gas, and food as well as the operation of fire services, transportation, and telecommunications. Wang Changxiao, director of flood prevention and disaster relief at the Shenzhen Emergency Management Bureau, urged residents to prepare at least three days of drinking water, food, medicine, and emergency supplies. “The super typhoon will become one of the most significant storms to hit the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area since 2018,” Wang said. “While staying at home, residents should secure doors and windows and have sufficient emergency supplies ready.” (Han Ximin) | 