Benguet dams open gates due to monsoon rains

Both the Ambuklao and Binga Dams opened their gates on Sunday, 23 February, as the northeast monsoon continues to dump rain over Northern Luzon.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration Flood Forecasting and Warning System for Dam Operation (PAGASA-FFWDO) issued a hydrological situation report for Agno River because the outflow of both Ambuklao and Binga will flow in the said river.

As of 9:00 AM, the water level at Ambuklao Dam stood at 751.67 meters, while Binga Dam measured 574.33 meters, both nearing their normal high water level (NHWL).

The spilling level in Ambuklao Dam is at 752 meters while Binga Dam is at 575 meters.

Both Ambuklao and Binga opened one gate each, releasing 33 cubic meters per second and 38 cubic meters per second, respectively.

According to PAGASA’s hydrological department, the outflow of Ambuklao will likely affect Barangay Ambuclao in Bokod, Benguet, while fo Binga, it will affect the barangays of Dalupirip and Tinongdan in Itogon, Benguet.

At least three to 15 millimeters of rainfall are expected within the watershed of the two dams, in which for the last 24 hours, a light rainfall has been recorded.

The Magat Dam in Isabela which has been releasing water since 14 February, closed its water gates last Saturday, 22 February.

The water level in the Isabela-based dam is at 191.47 meters, while its normal high water level is at 193.00 meters.

PAGASA reported on Sunday that two weather systems are currently affecting the country. 

The northeast monsoon affects most of Luzon, while the shear line which currently affects Visayas and Palawan.

“Because of the northeast monsoon, cloudy skies with light rains are possible over the eastern section of Luzon, the Cagayan Valley region, Cordillera, Aurora, Quezon, and Bicol,” PAGASA Weather Specialist Obet Badrina said.

The weather specialist added that the monsoon is expected to strengthen in the coming days, which could bring lower temperatures in Luzon.

In Palawan, the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (MDRRMO) of Brooke’s Point reported that at least nine barangays were flooded as some rivers in the said town logged a water level increase.