In response to hazardous sea conditions, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has put a stop to the voyages of small sea vessels in Sorsogon and Camarines Sur. The decision was made on Thursday, affecting the eastern seaboard of Sorsogon and the northern coast of Camarines Sur, where rough to very rough seas were anticipated.
The PCG issued advisories in both provinces, halting the operations of all watercraft with a gross tonnage of 250 or less. This measure was taken due to the strong to gale-force winds brought on by the northeast monsoon, with expected wave heights between 3.1 and 4.5 meters.
The affected areas in Sorsogon include the towns of Prieto Diaz, Gubat, Barcelona, Bulusan, and Sorsogon City. In Camarines Sur, the northern coast towns of Siruma, Tinambac, Lagonoy, Garchitonera, and Caramoan are under the advisory.
While larger vessels are permitted to sail, the PCG has urged them to proceed with caution due to the potential for significant wave activity. Meanwhile, the Office of Civil Defense in Bicol (OCD-5) has called on Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices to keep a close watch on weather conditions, stay informed with updates from the weather bureau, and monitor low-lying areas for possible flooding and landslides caused by heavy rain.
In addition to the maritime restrictions, classes at all levels in public and private schools across Albay, Camarines Sur, Camarines Norte, Sorsogon, and Catanduanes have been canceled due to the adverse weather conditions.