All casinos in Macau suspended operations from 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday after authorities raised a tropical cyclone signal 8 as Super Typhoon Ragasa approached the territory.
The Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau (DICJ) mandates a temporary suspension of gaming activities if a tropical cyclone signal 8 is raised to protect the safety of residents and visitors.
Authorities have already issued a tropical storm signal No. 10 at 5:30 a.m. on Wednesday, the highest level on the local scale, due to the approaching typhoon. The alert is expected to remain in effect for several hours, with forecasts predicting an intensification of wind throughout the day.
According to meteorological services, the center of the tropical storm will pass very close to Macau, causing sustained winds of at least 118 km/h, accompanied by strong gusts. The territory is expected to face severe weather conditions, with increased risks for the population and infrastructure.
The DICJ stated that it has coordinated with concessionaires to ensure that shutdown procedures are carried out smoothly, with measures in place to provide adequate rest conditions for staff and guests during the suspension period.
This is the latest precautionary step taken by the government as the city braces for Ragasa, which has already triggered the highest storm warning signals and is expected to bring destructive winds and possible storm surges.
Authorities warned of severe storm surges, widespread flooding, and destructive winds comparable to Typhoons Hato in 2017 and Mangkhut in 2018.
Macau has a history of rare but significant casino closures in extreme circumstances. In September 2018, authorities shut all casinos for 33 hours during Super Typhoon Mangkhut, marking the first full shutdown in history.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, casinos were closed for 15 days in February 2020 and one week in July 2022. More recently, Typhoon Saola in September 2023 led to a nine-hour full closure.
Ferry services and other transport links have already been suspended in preparation for Ragasa’s expected impact on the morning of Wednesday, September 24th.
