Brace for power and water shortages – lawmaker

Photo of Angat Dam for story: Brace for power and water shortages – lawmaker

The spillway of Angat Dam in Norzagaray, Bulacan. This photo was taken during a dry spell in
June 2019. The water level is again below normal. (File photo by GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE / Philippine Daily Inquirer)

MANILA, Philippines — The government must prepare for possible water and power interruptions in the next few months due to the dry season, especially during the elections, Deputy Speaker Bernadette Herrera said on Sunday.

Herrera advised water utility firms and other concerned agencies in Metro Manila and other areas to prepare their contingency plans.

On Jan. 1, the water level at Angat Dam stood at 202.80 meters, short by 10 m of its 212-m target.

On Sunday, the water level was 196.11 meters — or 15 meters below the normal water level of 212 meters.

Angat Dam in Bulacan is Metro Manila’s main source of water. Herrera also said power outages could happen in May due to the low power supply and higher demand.

—NESTOR CORRALES

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