The National Water Resources Board (NWRB) is considering cloud-seeding operations over the Angat Watershed as the water elevation of Angat Dam continues to decline, threatening the water supply of Metro Manila.
Water Level Drops Below Critical Threshold
As of Friday, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office of Bulacan recorded the dam's water elevation at 178.55 meters, which is 1.45 meters below its minimum operating level of 180 meters. Angat Dam serves as the primary source of potable water for Metro Manila.
Cloud Seeding as a Solution
To address the receding water level, NWRB Executive Director Sevillo David Jr. stated in a text message to the Philippine News Agency that the board is in discussions with the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) regarding the feasibility of cloud-seeding operations over the Angat Watershed.
El Niño Expected to Worsen Situation
David noted that the declining water level is expected to be further aggravated by the anticipated El Niño weather phenomenon. The NWRB is exploring all available options to ensure sufficient water supply for the region.
