Magat Dam in Isabela releases water amid heavy rains due to storm Julian

Magat Dam in Isabela releases water in its reservoir after it reaches its spilling level during Typhoon Rosita on October 31, 2018. (INQUIRER file photo / GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE)

CAUAYAN CITY — Irrigation officials allowed the release of 164 cubic meter per second floodwater from the reservoir’s gate at Magat Dam in Isabela beginning at noon on Sunday, September 29.

This decision comes amid the onslaught of tropical storm “Julian” (international name: Krathon).

“Julian” is expected to bring more water to its reservoir in Ramon, Isabela as rains continue to pour.

Engineer Carlo Ablan, National Irrigation Administration-Magat River Integrated Irrigation System dam and reservoir division manager, said they anticipated the heavy volume of water from its watersheds due to the storm so they notified authorities early on the water releases.

Water is expected to swell in Magat river, Cagayan river, Pinacanauan river and other tributaries within 24 hours.

The dam’s reservoir was measured at 185.8 meters above sea level (masl) while the inflow was pegged at 113.9 masl and the outflow at 423.1 masl.

No evacuees yet have been reported but disaster risk-reduction offices are on alert.

A liquor prohibition is in effect in Isabela and Cagayan provinces, while a “no sail, no fish” ban is also being implemented.