Angat, 4 other Luzon dams release water amid heavy rains from TS Ramil
Angat Dam (File Photo)
Angat Dam and four other major dams in Luzon have begun releasing water as heavy rains from Tropical Storm Ramil (international name: Fengshen) have pushed them close to their normal high water levels (NHWL), the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said on Sunday, Oct. 19.
As of 8 a.m., Angat Dam in Bulacan, the main source of Metro Manila’s water supply, reached 209.8 meters, just below its NHWL of 210 meters.
Ipo Dam, also in Bulacan, is already at its NHWL of 101 meters.
Ambuklao Dam in Benguet rose to 749.77 meters, nearing its NHWL of 752 meters, while Binga Dam, also in Benguet, registered 572.26 meters, close to its NHWL of 575 meters.
Both dams are releasing water gradually to prevent overflow downstream.
Meanwhile, Magat Dam in Isabela reached 185.62 meters, below its NHWL of 193 meters.
Although not yet at maximum capacity, authorities said controlled releases are underway to manage river flow in the Cagayan Valley.
Residents along rivers and irrigation channels are advised to stay alert, especially in low-lying areas, as dam releases combined with Ramil’s rainfall can quickly raise water levels downstream.
PAGASA said heavy rains are expected to persist over the next few hours as Ramil continues to cross land and affect parts of Luzon.
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