TACLOBAN CITY 鈥� The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has suspended the operations of small vessels and watercraft in the provinces of Eastern Samar and Northern Samar following a gale warning issued by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) on Sunday, Jan. 12.
According to the PCG Station Eastern Samar, all vessels with a gross tonnage of 250 gross tonnage (GT) and below are prohibited from sailing along the eastern coasts of the province, particularly in the towns of Arteche, San Policarpo, Oras, and Dolores, due to strong winds associated with the northeast monsoon.
Similarly, vessels with a gross tonnage of 35 GT and below operating within Eastern Samar waters are also advised to suspend operations.
The PCG Station Northern Samar issued a similar advisory, suspending sea travel for vessels with 250 GT and below along the northern and eastern coasts, including the towns of Laoang, Palapag, Mapanas, Gamay, and Lapinig.
The public was advised to avoid venturing out to sea as strong winds and waves pose significant risks.
The PCG has reminded larger vessels to remain vigilant and exercise caution when navigating the affected areas.
The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) in Eastern Visayas has declared an 鈥渙range rainfall鈥� status in both Samar provinces, meaning residents in these areas can expect heavy rainfall that could result in flooding and landslides.
READ: PCG grounds small vessels in Bohol due to gale warning