Magat Dam in NLuzon releases excess water

Saying its water level has gone critical due to several days of rain, Magat Dam in Isabela province in northern Luzon has released excess water from its reservoir. Engineer Saturnino Tenedor said Thursday they may need to continue releasing excess water to keep the water level from going above 193 meters. "We will have to continue releasing water if we see the water level is above 193 meters," he said in an interview on dzBB radio. He said the amihan (northeast wind) and inter-tropical convergence zone had caused continuous heavy rain in the area in past days. Tenedor said they do not see the release of water affecting residents, as dam administrators usually issue advance warnings. "Nagbibigay kami ng babala o warning bago kami mag-release ng tubig at binibigyan namin ng notice sa radio stations (We give advance notice to local radio stations when we are about to release water)," he said. But when asked until when they would release water, he said they could not tell. As of 6 a.m., the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said Magat's water level was at 193.09 meters, up from 192.98 meters Wednesday. The dam's normal high water level is 193 meters. — LBG, GMA News