Water levels at Angat Dam are nearing critical levels, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
As of 8 a.m. on June 11, the dam’s water elevation was recorded at 168.89 meters, lower than Wednesday’s level of 169.39 meters.
Angat Dam’s critical level is 160 meters, while its normal high water level stands at 210 meters.
Earlier, PAGASA said El Niño conditions are now present in the tropical Pacific, with an 80% probability of developing into a full-blown El Niño event that may persist until 2027.
With the onset of El Niño, PAGASA warned of an increased likelihood of below-normal rainfall across the country, raising the risk of dry spells and drought.
However, the state weather bureau noted that El Niño may also bring above-normal rainfall in some parts of the Philippines, particularly during the southwest monsoon or Habagat season.
PAGASA added that this could enhance tropical cyclone activity and bring rains to various areas of the country. — Photo from the Climate Change Commission