Magat Dam in Ramon, Isabela (Image from the National Irrigation Administration – MARIIS website)
SANTIAGO CITY-The Magat Dam in Ramon, Isabela would release 200 cubic meters per second of water at around 4 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 7, as a precautionary measure the due to heavy rains triggered by the northeast monsoon or “amihan” and shear line in the past days.
In an advisory, the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) said the release might increase depending upon the volume of water from the dam’s watersheds.
Engineer Carlo Ablan, NIA-Magat River Integrated Irrigation System Division Manager, cautioned villagers near Magat River and other tributaries to be on alert.
Ablan told villagers to evacuate if necessary and bring / secure their important belongings to higher grounds.
He urged residents and or near affected areas to monitor updates on social and other forms of media since the release of water may also cause flash floods.