Tropical Depression Basyang Brings Heavy Rains and Strong Winds to Visayas and Mindanao
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has issued an early morning bulletin warning residents in the Visayas and Mindanao regions about the impacts of Tropical Depression Basyang. According to the 5 a.m. update on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, this weather disturbance is expected to bring significant rainfall and gusty conditions to several provinces.
Current Status and Forecast of Tropical Depression Basyang
As of the latest tracking data, Tropical Depression Basyang is located approximately 895 kilometers east of Northeastern Mindanao. It is moving in a west-southwest direction at a speed of 20 kilometers per hour. The depression currently packs maximum sustained winds of 55 kilometers per hour near its center, with gustiness reaching up to 70 kilometers per hour.
PAGASA forecasts that Basyang will gradually intensify while over the Philippine Sea, potentially reaching tropical storm category later on Wednesday. The weather bureau predicts an initial landfall over eastern Mindanao between Thursday night and Friday, which could bring more severe conditions to the area.
Areas Affected by Heavy Rainfall and Strong Winds
The weather disturbance is expected to bring heavy rainfall to several key areas. In the Visayas region, Eastern Samar and Southern Leyte are under threat. In Mindanao, the provinces of Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Davao de Oro, and Davao Oriental should prepare for significant precipitation.
Strong winds will prevail in areas where Signal No. 1 has been hoisted. This includes specific municipalities in the southern portion of Surigao del Sur, such as Cagwait, Marihatag, San Agustin, Barobo, Tagbina, Hinatuan, City of Bislig, Lingig, and Lianga.
Additional Weather Systems and Warnings
PAGASA also reported that the surge of the northeast monsoon, locally known as amihan, will contribute to the weather conditions. This monsoon surge is expected to bring strong to gale-force gusts across most of Luzon, Visayas, Dinagat Islands, Caraga, Davao Region, Zamboanga Peninsula, Camiguin, Misamis Oriental, and Lanao del Norte.
A gale warning is currently in effect over the eastern seaboard of Visayas, advising residents and maritime operators to exercise caution due to potentially hazardous sea conditions.
Preparedness and Safety Measures
Residents in the affected areas are urged to stay updated with the latest weather advisories from PAGASA. Local government units and disaster risk reduction management councils should activate their emergency response plans to mitigate the impacts of heavy rains and strong winds.
Precautionary measures include securing loose outdoor items, avoiding unnecessary travel, and preparing emergency kits. Those living in low-lying and flood-prone areas should consider evacuation if advised by authorities.
