Southwest monsoon brings rain and rising dam levels to the Philippines

The southwest monsoon, known locally as habagat, is bringing increased rainfall and thunderstorm risks across parts of the Philippines, specifically affecting the Visayas and Luzon regions.

In Negros Oriental and the wider Visayas, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has warned of persistent cloud cover, scattered rain, and potential afternoon thunderstorms. The monsoon system is expected to maintain this pattern through at least Wednesday, September 10.

Concurrently, water levels at six of nine monitored dams have shown increases due to the monsoon activity. Binga Dam in Benguet recorded the largest rise at 0.50 meters, followed by Angat Dam in Bulacan with a 0.49-meter increase. Other dams showing rising levels include Pantabangan, Caliraya, Ambuklao, and Magat. Conversely, water levels at San Roque, Ipo, and La Mesa dams have decreased. To manage levels, gates at the Ambuklao, Binga, and San Roque dams were recently opened.