Residents living along the low-lying areas near Angat River, particularly those in Norzagaray, Angat, San Rafael, Bustos, Baliuag, Pulilan, Plaridel, Calumpit, Paombong and Hagonoy were once again warned of possible flooding.
In a flood situationer issued on Saturday morning, Jan. 7, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said both Angat and Ipo Dams released excess water as of 8 a.m.
“The water level of Angat Dam is at 214.82m and slowly decreasing. It is still expected to receive light rains caused by the current weather system. The spilling operation as of 8 a.m. today a total discharge of 1,236 cms. the water level of Ipo Dam as of 8 a.m. is at 101.04m with a total discharge of 1,227.30cms,” the state weather bureau’s flood situationer read.
A basin average of 21mm rainfall was observed in the past 24-hour period. In the next 24 hours, on the other hand, a basin average of 5 to 10mm rainfall is expected. Rainfall in the country, according to PAGASA's latest forecast, may be attributed to the continuous surge of the northeast monsoon, locally called amihan, as well as other prevailing weather systems such as the shear line and the newly-formed low pressure area east of southeastern Mindanao.
PAGASA said the hydrological condition of Angat River will continuously be monitored. Those living in low-lying areas near the river, however, were strongly told to “take appropriate action due to the rise in river elevation” and be alert against hazards such as, but not limited to flooding.