It may be cliché, but when you’re in the Philippines, it’s always best to expect the unexpected, particularly when it comes to the weather. As one of the vulnerable countries in the world due to climate change, weather can change drastically within a day.

This means when you’re diving, you may descend with clear sunny skies and ascend with angry swells. What will you do then if you’re caught in this situation? We have handy tips right here:

Check the weather.

First things first: make sure that you know the forecast of the day. In the Philippines, you can get information from TV news, radio, and Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), which is the country’s official weather bureau.

Of course, you need to coordinate with your dive school or shop, as well as use apps such as Accuweather. When you’re using the app, make sure that you are specific with your location. Because the Philippines is a huge archipelago, weather in the capital can be very different than that in Cebu.

Determine the visibility.

One of the biggest issues with diving in Cebu in bad weather is visibility, which can be hampered by strong rains and soil erosion, among others. The best person to talk to about this is your instructor. Their many years of experience should already help them gauge whether it can still be safe to dive and for how long you should be under water.

Dive in pairs.

Is it possible to dive even in strong waves? Yes, since the condition underwater can already be calm. However, getting into the water is another story. If the waves are not too big, you can consider diving, but it’s ideal if you do it in groups or pairs. This way, you can count on each other for stability and, of course, during an emergency.

Stay away from wrecks and caves in the meantime.

When the weather isn’t too good, it’s best to keep your Cebu diving path and plan as simple as possible. In case the weather turns for the worse, you can easily and quickly get out of the water. Moreover, rocks, caves, and wrecks can possibly trap you when you least expect it.

When it’s bad, get out.

Many divers prefer to check the conditions underwater first before bailing out, and that’s fine. However, if you can’t get good visibility within 40 feet, you’re feeling colder than usual, or the current is not great for you, get out of the water.

Take control.

Bad weather is one of the best times to be alert, pay attention to your surroundings, and exercise mindfulness and great control. It isn’t an excuse to throw away the basics including a slow ascent, for example.

When it comes to diving in Cebu in bad weather, it pays to be safe than arrogant. Listen to the rules, follow your instructor, and keep everything you’ve learned in mind. They’ll sure come in handy when the going gets tough.