Tropical Storm Bebinca to Enter PAR: What Travellers Need to Know

Travellers and residents in the Philippines should prepare as Severe Tropical Storm Bebinca approaches the country. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has confirmed that Bebinca will enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) on Friday evening, 13 Sep 2024. Once inside PAR, the storm will be renamed Ferdie, becoming the sixth tropical cyclone to affect the country this year.

Also read: 10 Tips for Planning Out-of-Town Trips During Typhoon Season

What we know about the tropical storm Bebinca

Image credit: (L-R) eberhard grossgasteiger, Mac99 via Canva Pro

According to PAGASA's 10am bulletin on Thursday, 12 Sep 2024, Bebinca was last located 1,975 kilometres east of Central Luzon and 1,930 kilometres east of Northern Luzon. It is expected to intensify into a typhoon but will remain far from the Philippine landmass throughout the forecast period. The storm is predicted to exit PAR late Friday evening or early Saturday morning, minimising the risk of a direct hit to the country.

While Bebinca itself may not make landfall, it will still influence the weather across various regions. Eastern Visayas, Caraga, and parts of the Bicol Region, including Catanduanes, Albay, Sorsogon, and Masbate, are likely to experience cloudy skies, scattered rains, and thunderstorms on Thursday. In addition, the southwest monsoon will bring similar weather to Palawan, Occidental Mindoro, Romblon, and other parts of Visayas and Mindanao.

Travellers planning trips to these regions should be aware of potential weather disruptions and stay updated on the latest weather advisories. PAGASA also issued a warning to mariners, particularly those operating small seacrafts and motor bankas. They are advised not to venture out to sea under these conditions due to rough sea conditions that could pose safety hazards.

Despite the storm’s proximity, PAGASA assures that Bebinca will not significantly affect mainland Philippines. However, caution is still advised, especially for those in areas prone to flooding and landslides. It’s always wise to monitor the latest weather updates and prepare accordingly, particularly during typhoon season.

Also read: The Safest Places in the Philippines to Visit During Any Season

For travellers in the Philippines, this is a reminder to keep safety in mind and stay informed about changing weather patterns. Whether you're planning a beach getaway or an outdoor adventure, make sure you stay updated on the storm’s progress and adjust your plans accordingly for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Featured image credit: PAGASA | Official Website