Fire forces Dinagat water shutdown
SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur — The San Jose Water District in Dinagat Islands has suspended its entire water supply operation after a large fire swept through a watershed area and reached facilities serving communities in three towns.
The shutdown came as the province recorded a dangerous heat index of 45 degrees Celsius at noon on Thursday, raising concerns over residents’ access to water amid extreme heat.
The water district said the fire began around 8 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 29, in Sitio Palo Doce, Barangay Doña Helen in Basilisa town. It spread rapidly by 3 p.m. the following day.
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The blaze eventually reached the pumping station in Sitio Manoligao, Barangay Del Pilar in Cagdianao, and moved toward the upper portion of the watershed in Barangay Cuarinta, San Jose.
The fire remained active in parts of the watershed as of Thursday, said the water district.
Clearing operations, a rapid damage assessment, and needs analysis were underway to determine the condition of the water facilities and the extent of the damage.
“Water supply operations will resume once the status of our facilities is declared safe and secure,” the water district management said in an advisory.
Repair and restoration work will begin immediately after the assessment, it added.
The shutdown comes as residents contend with dangerous heat.
At noon Thursday, the air temperature reached 34°C, with a dew point of 27°C, producing a heat index of 45°C—classified as “danger.”
Under such conditions, prolonged exposure or physical activity may cause heat cramps, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke.
Residents were advised to drink plenty of water, avoid unnecessary outdoor activities, wear light-colored clothing, use umbrellas, and limit strenuous activities during midday and afternoon. They were also advised to avoid alcoholic drinks.
The water district appealed for patience and cooperation, acknowledging that the shutdown would worsen the existing water shortage.
“Our priority is public safety and the restoration of water supply service at the earliest possible time,” it said./coa
