BACOLOD City – Bacolod City and several local government units (LGUs) in Negros Occidental have been advised to heighten preparedness measures amid the possible occurrence of storm surges triggered by Tropical Storm (TS) “Basyang,” according to the latest advisory from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
In Storm Surge Warning No. 04 issued at 8 a.m. on February 5, PAGASA warned of a minimal to moderate storm surge risk, with wave heights ranging from one to two meters that may affect coastal areas of the province within the next 48 hours.
Areas identified as vulnerable include Bacolod City and the municipalities and cities of Calatrava, Escalante, San Carlos City, Toboso, Sagay City, Cadiz City, Manapla, Victorias City, E.B. Magalona, Talisay City, Bago City, Pulupandan, Valladolid, Pontevedra, Hinigaran, Binalbagan, Himamaylan City, Kabankalan City, and Ilog.
PAGASA urged residents in coastal and low-lying communities to avoid coastal areas, suspend marine activities, and move to higher ground, particularly those living in storm surge-prone zones. The agency also advised local disaster risk reduction and management offices to closely monitor weather updates and implement precautionary measures.
Provincial and municipal disaster officials are expected to issue localized advisories, prepare evacuation plans, and coordinate with barangay officials to ensure the safety of coastal residents and fisherfolk.
Meanwhile, Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya issued Executive Order No. 4 on February 4, suspending classes at all levels in both public and private schools due to adverse weather conditions brought by “Basyang.” As of 6 a.m., the provincial government reported that 17 LGUs had also ordered the suspension of classes.
Due to rough sea conditions, hundreds of passengers were stranded at the BREDCO Port in Bacolod City after the Philippine Coast Guard suspended sea travel. The city government provided evacuation centers for affected passengers.
The Bacolod City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO) remains on alert and is preparing for possible preemptive evacuations in flood-prone areas should weather conditions worsen./PN
