Philippines travel advice

Typhoon Hagupit (locally named “Ruby”) entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility on 4th December. The state weather agency PAGASA (www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph) said “Ruby” is expected to make landfall over Eastern Samar in the Visayas on Saturday and is likely to remain in the Philippines until Tuesday 9th December. The US Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) in Pearl Harbour has classified “Ruby” as a super typhoon with winds of 240 kph near the centre and gusts of up to 296 kph. PAGASA and the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) continue to describe the storm as a typhoon. PAGASA warned of possible 3-4 metre high storm surges this weekend along the coastlines of the eastern Visayas.

There is also a risk of flash floods in low lying areas, and landslides in mountain regions. Since “Ruby” is still far from land, there are no public storm warning signals in effect. These will be triggered when a storm is expected within 36 hours. British nationals in the Visayas and Mindanao should continue to monitor weather forecasts and advisories and follow the instructions of government officials, police and security personnel.

Travel disruptions are likely at airports and seaports throughout the Visayas and Mindanao over the weekend due to the typhoon. Flight cancellations and delays are also expected at Manila’s airports. British nationals with travel plans should check with their carriers prior to departure. There is minimal risk that the typhoon will pass across Luzon or affect Metro Manila