Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 1 has been raised over the southern portion of Surigao del Sur as Tropical Depression Basyang continues to maintain its strength while moving closer to eastern Mindanao on Wednesday, February 4, according to PAGASA.

As of 4:00 a.m., the center of Basyang was located about 895 kilometers east of northeastern Mindanao at coordinates 9.1°N, 133.6°E. The tropical depression is carrying maximum sustained winds of 55 kilometers per hour near the center, with gusts reaching up to 70 kilometers per hour, and a central pressure of 1002 hectopascals.

PAGASA said Basyang is moving west-southwestward at 20 kilometers per hour, with strong winds extending up to 210 kilometers from the center.

Under Signal No. 1 are the municipalities of Cagwait, Marihatag, San Agustin, Barobo, Tagbina, Hinatuan, Bislig City, Lingig, and Lianga in southern Surigao del Sur. Wind speeds of 39 to 61 kilometers per hour may be experienced in these areas within 36 hours, posing minimal to minor threats to life and property.

The weather bureau said the highest wind signal that may be raised during the passage of Basyang is Signal No. 2.

Aside from the tropical depression, PAGASA warned that the surge of the Northeast Monsoon may bring strong to gale-force gusts over most of Luzon and Visayas, as well as parts of Mindanao, including Caraga and the Davao Region.

A Gale Warning is also in effect over the eastern seaboard of Visayas, with very rough seas of up to 4.5 meters expected in the eastern seaboards of Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, Dinagat Islands, Siargao-Bucas Grande Islands, and Surigao del Sur. Mariners are advised to remain in port or seek safe harbor.

PAGASA said Basyang may intensify into a tropical storm while over the Philippine Sea and is expected to make landfall over eastern Mindanao between Wednesday evening and Friday morning before weakening as it crosses the country.