La Mesa Dam nears spilling level
Published Jul 30, 2023 12:34 am
The La Mesa Dam in Quezon City is close to overflowing due to incessant rains caused by the southwest monsoon, or "habagat", enhanced by severe tropical storm Falcon (international name: Khanun), the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said on Saturday night, July 29.
“The water level of La Mesa Dam as of 9:30 p.m. (July 29) is 79.81 meters and is expected to rise due to continuous occasional rains caused by the southwest monsoon. Excess flood waters in La Mesa Dam will overflow in the event that the dam elevation reaches 80.15 meters,” PAGASA said in a hydrological dam situationer issued at 10 p.m., Saturday.
La Mesa Dam (PNA File Photo)
Since the La Mesa Dam has no floodgates, excess water may overflow into the Tullahan River and nearby communities. Flood warnings have been issued for low-lying areas along the Tullahan River, particularly in Barangay Fairview, Forest Hills Subdivision, Quirino Highway, and Sta. Quiteria in Quezon City, Barangay Ligon on the North Luzon Expressway, and the La Huerta Subdivision in Valenzuela City, as well as Malabon City. “All residents living in the aforementioned areas, especially those near the river banks, are advised to be alert for possible flooding,” PAGASA warned.
La Mesa Dam (PNA File Photo)
Since the La Mesa Dam has no floodgates, excess water may overflow into the Tullahan River and nearby communities. Flood warnings have been issued for low-lying areas along the Tullahan River, particularly in Barangay Fairview, Forest Hills Subdivision, Quirino Highway, and Sta. Quiteria in Quezon City, Barangay Ligon on the North Luzon Expressway, and the La Huerta Subdivision in Valenzuela City, as well as Malabon City. “All residents living in the aforementioned areas, especially those near the river banks, are advised to be alert for possible flooding,” PAGASA warned.