Manila: A hydrologist warned on Wednesday that Angat Dam may reach the critical low water level of 160 meters within the next few days or by the end of June. As of 8 a.m. Wednesday, the dam's water level was approximately 163.51 meters and was decreasing at an average rate of half a meter per day due to lower-than-expected rainfall.
According to Philippines News Agency, the weather bureau recorded only 127 millimeters of rain from June 1-22, significantly lower than the anticipated 280 millimeters. Angat Dam is crucial as it supplies 98 percent of the potable water in Metro Manila through the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System, with its normal water level being 210 meters.
With the ongoing decline in the dam's water level, Jofren Habaluyas of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration indicated that a water shortage could occur in the region. Habaluyas noted that government measures were in place to address the expected decrease in Angat Dam's water level.
He stated that there had been zero allocation for irrigation since the last weeks of May, ensuring that water was prioritized for domestic use. Habaluyas also mentioned that rainfall is expected to increase by the second or third week of July, which could boost the reservoir's water level to around 176.33 meters by July 31. Monsoon rains are anticipated to aid in raising the dam's water level.
