Significant rainfall brought by the enhanced southwest monsoon, or "habagat," in the past few hours caused La Mesa Dam in Quezon City to overflow when its water level reached the spilling level of 80.15 meters early Wednesday morning, Aug. 28.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said La Mesa Dam’s water level further increased to 80.20 meters as of 8 a.m., and “is now overflowing due to continuous occasional rains caused by the habagat.”
The southwest monsoon is being enhanced by Typhoon Shanshan, which is outside the country’s area of responsibility and moving toward Japan.
Since La Mesa Dam does not have a gate to control the accumulation of floodwaters, PAGASA warned that any excess water beyond the 80.15-meter mark would result in overflow.
The discharged water from La Mesa Dam may affect low-lying areas along the Tullahan River in Quezon City, particularly Fairview, Forest Hills Subdivision, Quirino Highway, Sta. Quiteria, and San Bartolome.
It may also affect areas in Valenzuela, including Barangay Ligon, North Expressway, and La Huerta Subdivision, as well as parts of Malabon.
PAGASA advised all residents in these areas, especially those near river banks, to remain vigilant and prepare for potential flooding.