Pagasa-Davao Issues Alert as Tropical Depression Basyang Approaches Eastern Mindanao
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration-Davao (Pagasa-Davao) has issued a stern warning to residents in coastal and low-lying areas of Eastern Mindanao, particularly in Davao Oriental, urging them to take immediate precautionary measures. This alert comes as Tropical Depression Basyang continues to affect the region, posing significant risks to communities and maritime activities.
Weather Conditions and Projected Impacts
In an online press briefing held on February 4, 2026, Pagasa-Davao detailed that Basyang is expected to bring moderate to strong winds, leading to moderate to rough sea conditions. These conditions are deemed hazardous for fishing and other maritime operations, prompting advisories for fisherfolk and small sea vessels to remain ashore until further notice. The agency emphasized that heavy rainfall is likely over the eastern portions of Davao Oriental, as well as parts of Agusan and Surigao provinces, which could trigger flash floods and landslides, especially in vulnerable low-lying and mountainous areas.
Based on rainfall projections from DOST-Pagasa, up to 16 municipalities in the Davao Region may experience rainfall ranging from 50 to 100 millimeters. The affected areas include:
- Maco, Maragusan (San Mariano), New Bataan, Laak (San Vicente), Mawab, Monkayo, Montevista, Nabunturan (capital), Asuncion (Saug), Tagum City (capital), New Corella, Baganga, Boston, Caraga, and Cateel.
Residents in high-risk landslide areas across Davao de Oro, Davao Oriental, and Davao del Norte have been urged to closely follow advisories from their respective local government units (LGUs), particularly in anticipation of potential evacuation orders.
Wind Signals and Current Status
As of the latest bulletin, Wind Signal No. 1 has been raised in several provinces due to the effects of TD Basyang. This includes northern and central portions of Davao Oriental (Cateel, Baganga, Caraga, Manay, Tarragona, Lupon, Banaybanay), Davao de Oro, Davao del Norte, and the northern portion of Davao del Sur, which encompasses Davao City. Meanwhile, Signal No. 2 has been specifically raised in Boston, Davao Oriental, indicating heightened danger.
At 2 p.m. on February 5, 2026, Basyang was located approximately 185 kilometers east of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur. It was packing maximum sustained winds of 55 kilometers per hour, with gusts reaching up to 70 kph, and moving westward at a speed of 15 kph. Pagasa forecasts that Basyang will intensify into a tropical storm within the day, with its first landfall expected over the Caraga region between late Thursday, February 5, and early Friday, February 6.
Forecasted Path and Additional Warnings
After crossing northeastern Mindanao, the system is projected to weaken back into a tropical depression before traversing Central and Western Visayas. It is then forecast to emerge over the Sulu Sea on Saturday morning, pass near northern Palawan by Saturday afternoon or evening, and enter the West Philippine Sea by early Sunday, where it may further weaken into a low-pressure area. The highest wind signal that may be raised during Basyang's passage is Wind Signal No. 2, underscoring the persistent threat.
Pagasa also warned that the surge of the Northeast Monsoon will enhance the effects of Basyang, bringing strong gale-force gusts in coastal and upland areas exposed to winds. Authorities continue to advise the public to remain vigilant, monitor official weather updates, and coordinate with local disaster risk reduction offices as the weather system develops. This proactive approach aims to mitigate risks and ensure community safety amid the evolving situation.
