In response to the heavy rainfall caused by Typhoon Pepito (Man-yi), the Magat Dam has escalated its water management strategy by opening five of its spillway gates by Monday noon (Nov. 18, 2024). The initial opening reached a total of 9 meters, resulting in a discharge rate of 1,720 cubic meters per second. By 5 p.m., two additional gates were scheduled to be opened, increasing the total to seven gates.
The dam’s reservoir level was recorded at 192.15 meters above sea level at noon, nearing the normal water level of 193 meters. The total discharge into the river was reported at 1,767.99 cubic meters per second, according to the National Irrigation Administration-Magat River Integrated Irrigation System’s (NIA-MARIIS) Flood Forecasting and Warning System.
Carlos Ablan, the flood operation manager at Magat Dam, explained that the decision to open more gates was made in anticipation of increased water inflow due to the typhoon’s aftermath. By 1 p.m., the discharge rate had risen to 1,961 cubic meters per second with the gradual opening of five gates to two meters each.
Residents in Northern Luzon, particularly those near water tributaries, have been advised to brace for potential flooding as excess water is released. The Buntun Bridge in Tuguegarao City saw water levels rise to 9.6 meters, surpassing the 8-meter warning level by 1 p.m. Additionally, the Capatan Overflow Bridge became impassable at the same time.
Several roads in Tuguegarao City, including sections of Pinacanauan Avenue, Riverpark, Riverbank, Centro A, Aguinaldo Extension, Macapagal Crossing, Gomez Extension, and Gonzaga Street, were reported as impassable.
Mayor Maila Ting-Que of Tuguegarao City emphasized the importance of preparedness, stating, “It’s better to be prepared than to be negligent.” She announced the opening of more evacuation centers and the readiness of government vehicles. Work in government offices was suspended at noon, while private offices were left to decide on their operations.