Despite several days of rainfall, the water level at Angat Dam continues to decline, nearing its critical level.
Data from state weather bureau PAGASA as of 8:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 17, showed the dam’s water level at 166.86 meters—well below its normal operating level of 180 meters. Its critical low level is set at 160 meters.
This comes even as Bulacan has experienced days of heavy rains brought by the southwest monsoon, or habagat, and the onset of the rainy season.
Over the weekend, intense rainfall caused the Marilao River to overflow, flooding several areas. Marilao Mayor Jem Sy confirmed to the Philippine News Agency that the river overflowed on Saturday night, June 13, prompting residents to evacuate to designated centers.
Floodwaters subsided a few hours later, allowing evacuees to return to their homes.
Angat Dam supplies about 95% of Metro Manila’s water needs and irrigates around 28,000 hectares of farmland in Bulacan and Pampanga.
Earlier, PAGASA urged the public to prepare for a possible El Niño event, which may develop between June and August and potentially intensify from October to December.
PAGASA Administrator Nathaniel Servando warned that a strong El Niño could bring below-normal rainfall, prolonged dry conditions, water shortages, and adverse impacts across key sectors. — Photo from PNA
