Angat Dam Water Level Rises But Remains Below Normal

CITY OF MALOLOS—Rains dumped by Tropical Depression Luis and the southwest monsoon or “habagat” helped elevate Angat Dam’s water level by 7 meters as of Wednesday, August 5. However, the reservoir in Norzagaray, Bulacan, is still below its 160-meter critical water level and normal high-water elevation of 212 meters above sea level (masl). As of 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, the dam’s water level was at 205.73 meters. This is an improvement from the 200.06 meters recorded on August 1, but it remains below the normal high-water elevation of 212 masl. While it is above the 160-meter critical level, further increases are needed for a more stable supply. Angat Dam is the primary source of water for about 90 percent of Metro Manila's needs, and fluctuations in its water level can directly impact residents' daily lives. Should the water level drop below critical targets, the risk of water service interruptions or rationing increases. The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) is closely monitoring the dam's water levels and the ongoing rainfall. In recent years, the Philippines has faced increasing water scarcity, partly due to phenomena like El Niño and the broader impacts of climate change. Declining water levels in Angat Dam also pose concerns for agricultural irrigation, potentially affecting food production. Government officials have emphasized the need for efficient water resource management and the development of new water sources.