PAGASA takes a break from Twitter after 'Bebeng' exit

Now that tropical storm "Bebeng" (international codename "Aere") has exited the country, state weather forecasters are taking a break from using their Twitter account, at least until the next cyclone comes. The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said that it will revive its Twitter account when another disturbance threatens the country. "We would like to inform our dear followers that we will be temporarily inactive and will be posting updates when another weather disturbance threatens the country," it said in a message at 1am. After leaving at least 24 dead and P130 million worth of property damage, "Bebeng" exited Philippine territory before noon Wednesday, but had already set a course for Japan the day before. PAGASA set up its Twitter account (www.twitter.com/dost_pagasa) to provide hourly updates on weather disturbances. Last weekend, it provided more frequent updates on "Bebeng," as it updated its main website (www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph) only every six hours. However, the break may not last long as a weather disturbance threatening to intensify into a cyclone is nearing the Philippines. PAGASA said that, should it become a cyclone and enter the Philippines, it will be codenamed "Chedeng." — TJD, GMA News