Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 29) — Up to 11 more tropical cyclones could enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) this year, according to the state weather bureau.
\”At least eight hanggang 11 na bagyo. At dito sa Angat [dam] for example, inaasahan natin na at least two storms or typhoons ang dadaan para supisyente tumaas yung lebel ng Angat,\” Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) Deputy Administrator Nathaniel Servando said Saturday.
[Translation: At least eight to 11 storms. When it comes to Angat, we’re hoping two storms will be enough to sufficiently raise the dam’s water level.]
Tropical Storm Falcon, the sixth storm for 2023 and the third for July, entered PAR early Saturday morning. It came just two days after “Egay,” which ravaged parts of Northern Luzon, left the country’s weather monitoring area.
Servando said the rains brought by tropical cyclones could have beneficial effects, such as improving water levels in dams, and even reducing the effects of El Niño.
As of July 29, Angat Dam’s water level was recorded at 191.70 meters. Its minimum operating level is 180, while its normal high water level is 210 meters.
PAGASA announced on July 4 the start of a “weak” El Niño. Shortly after, Angat’s water level fell below its minimum operating level.
\”Kapag may El Niño kasi, ang inaasahan natin na malalakas iyong mga bagyo, particularly towards the later part of the year, mga bandang September, October ang tinatamaan na dito lagi ay ang ating mga kalupaan, particular Visayas area,\” Servando added.
