PAGASA Raises Signal No. 1 for Basyang Nearing Mindanao

Tropical Depression Basyang, the second cyclone of 2026 to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility, prompted the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration to raise Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 over southern Surigao del Sur on Wednesday morning, February 4, as the system accelerated toward Mindanao.

As of 5 a.m., PAGASA located Basyang's center approximately 895 kilometers east of northeastern Mindanao, moving west-southwestward at 20 kilometers per hour with maximum sustained winds of 55 kph near the center and gusts up to 70 kph. The signal covers the southern portion of Surigao del Sur, including the municipalities of Cagwait, Marihatag, San Agustin, Barobo, Tagbina, Hinatuan, and Lianga, as well as Bislig City and Lingig. Areas under Signal No. 1 may experience winds of 39 to 61 kph, leading to minimal to minor threats to life and property, according to PAGASA. The agency forecasts the highest wind signal during the cyclone's passage to reach No. 2.

Basyang entered the PAR late Tuesday afternoon, February 3, initially positioned 965 kilometers east of northeastern Mindanao and moving westward at 10 kph. Forecasters expect it to...