Magat Dam increases water release

The Office of Civil Defense in Cagayan Valley has advised residents near and along the Magat and Cagayan rivers to take precautionary measures as the Magat Dam in Isabela is releasing water amid its rising levels.

This, as state-weather bureau PAGASA disclosed that the dam’s water level rose from 190.63 meters to 191.18 meters last Saturday. The normal high water level (NHWL), or its spilling level, is 193 meters.

Due to the continuous water level increase, the dam opened its gate, with an approximate total discharge of 417 cubic meters per second.

“The general public is encouraged to adhere to the guidelines and directives of respective local government units (LGUs) and continuously monitor advisories from the CVDRRMC,” the agency’s statement reads.

The water level increase is linked to the shear line-induced rains that have moved northward since last Thursday, resulting in rain showers over extreme Northern Luzon.

According to PAGASA’s weather forecast, three weather systems continue to affect different parts of the country.

The shear line, where warm and cold air converge, is affecting extreme Northern Luzon, while easterlies, or dry air from the Pacific, are impacting the eastern portions of Luzon.

Meanwhile, the intertropical convergence zone, a weather system where air masses from the Northern and Southern Hemispheres collide, is influencing the southern portion of Mindanao.