The Philippines is once again bracing for a significant weather event as Typhoon Basyang — internationally known as Tropical Storm Penha — continues to strengthen and move toward the eastern coast of Mindanao and adjacent regions. This system has rapidly organized and prompted the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) to raise multiple tropical cyclone wind signals in both Visayas and Mindanao as of February 5, 2026.
What Is Typhoon Basyang?
Typhoon Basyang developed from a low-pressure area (LPA) in the Philippine Sea. Over the past few days, it has steadily gained organization and strength as it moves west-southwestward toward the Philippine archipelago. As of February 4–5, Basyang has intensified into a tropical storm, carrying maximum sustained winds of around 65 kilometers per hour (kph) near the center and gusts up to 80 kph.
Naming and Classification
Local Name: Basyang
International Name: Penha
Current Classification: Tropical Storm
Wind Strength: Sustained winds up to 65 kph with gusts up to 80 kph
Movement: West-southwestward toward eastern Mindanao and the Visayas region
This system is expected to maintain its strength as it approaches land, with further developments dependent on its interaction with land masses and atmospheric conditions.
Storm Track & Forecast: Where Is Basyang Now?
Current Position
As of the latest tropical cyclone bulletin:
The center of Typhoon Basyang was estimated approximately 295–440 kilometers east of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur.
The storm is moving west-southwest at roughly 15–20 kph toward Eastern Mindanao.
Forecast Track Overview
Forecasters indicate the following general track:
Approach to Eastern Mindanao:
Basyang is expected to approach and potentially make landfall along the eastern coast of Mindanao late Thursday night or early Friday.Across Visayas:
After crossing Mindanao, the storm may continue toward the Central Visayas region, affecting areas like Siquijor, Negros Oriental, Southern Cebu, and Bohol with wind and rain.Further Movement:
The storm may then steer toward the Sulu Sea and possibly northern Palawan over the weekend, depending on atmospheric steering currents.
Uncertainty in Path
It’s important to note that exact storm tracks are not fixed and can change — especially as the storm interacts with land and varying weather conditions. PAGASA’s “cone of uncertainty” highlights potential variations in where the storm may pass, so communities should prepare even if not directly in the core forecast path.
Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals & Affected Areas
PAGASA has raised multiple Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals over areas expected to experience significant winds and rainfall.
Signal No. 2 (Gale-force Winds Likely Within 24 Hours)
Signal No. 2 — which indicates gale-force winds of 62–88 kph expected within 24 hours — is currently in effect over numerous provinces in the Visayas and Mindanao.
Current areas under Signal No. 2 include:
Visayas:
Siquijor
Southern Negros Oriental (Dumaguete City and nearby towns)
Southern Cebu municipalities
Southern Bohol municipalities
Mindanao:
Surigao del Norte (including Siargao & Bucas Grande Islands)
Surigao del Sur
Agusan del Norte
Agusan del Sur
Davao Oriental & Davao de Oro
Misamis Oriental and portions of Bukidnon
Signal No. 1 (Strong Winds Likely Within 36 Hours)
Signal No. 1 remains in effect for a wider area across southern portions of the Visayas and portions of Mindanao — including regions that may experience strong winds of 39–61 kph.
Expected Impacts
Heavy Rainfall & Flooding
Basyang is forecast to bring heavy to intense rainfall across affected regions — especially in the Caraga region, Mindanao, and portions of the Visayas.
Rainfall may trigger:
Flash floods
Landslides
Urban flooding in low-lying zones
Communities in flood-prone areas should remain vigilant and prepared for evacuation orders.
Storm Surge Risk
Coastal advisories warn of the possibility of storm surge up to 1–2 meters, particularly along:
Surigao and Davao provinces
Coastal areas in Cebu, Bohol, Leyte, and Negros
Island communities such as Siargao and Dinagat Islands
Fisherfolk and beachside residents are advised to avoid coastal waters and heed safety directives.
Rough Seas & Marine Hazards
Gale warnings remain in effect over the eastern seaboards of the Visayas and Mindanao. Rough to very rough seas with wave heights up to 4–5 meters are expected, making marine travel extremely dangerous.
Mariners, particularly small-craft operators, must stay in port or seek safe anchorage.
Safety Tips for Residents
Before the Storm
Stock up on essentials (water, food, medicine)
Secure loose outdoor items
Charge electronics and prepare emergency kits
Monitor updates from PAGASA and local authorities
During the Storm
Stay indoors away from windows
Avoid unnecessary travel
Follow evacuation orders if issued
After the Storm
Watch out for flooding
Report downed power lines or hazards
Check on neighbors, especially the elderly or disabled
Typhoon Basyang poses a multi-hazard threat to the Philippines — with strong winds, heavy rains, storm surge risks, and dangerous seas. The latest PAGASA bulletins confirm escalating warnings and forecast continued movement toward Eastern Mindanao and the Visayas.
Residents are strongly encouraged to stay informed, prepare early, and follow government advisories to minimize risk and ensure safety.
