Residents in low-lying areas near the Angat River are advised to be on alert as Ipo Dam in Norzagaray, Bulacan started to release water around Sunday noon, July 25, said the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
As of Sunday noon, PAGASA said the dam's water level was at 101.30 meters and is expected to rise further due to heavy rainfall induced by the southwest monsoon or "habagat."
"Ipo Dam management conducted spilling operation at 12:29 p.m. with approximate discharge of 40.8 cms (cubic meters per second)," PAGASA said in a dam situationer issued at 1 p.m.
Residents near the banks of Angat River and low-lying communities, particularly in Norzagaray, Angat, San Rafael, Bustos, Baliuag, Pulilan, Plaridel, and Hagonoy, Bulacan, were advised "to be alert for possible increase in the water level downstream."
PAGASA and Ipo Dam management said they will continue to monitor the hydrological condition of Ipo Dam as monsoon rains continue to affect several parts of Luzon, including Bulacan province.