Water levels in Aklan’s three major irrigation dams have risen above or near their normal operating elevations as of 8 a.m. Tuesday, according to the latest advisory from the National Irrigation Administration in Western Visayas (NIA 6), which continues to monitor the effects of Typhoon Tino on the province’s waterways.
In Barangay Agdugayan, Ibajay, the Panakuyan River Irrigation System (RIS) recorded a water elevation of 16.10 meters above sea level (masl), higher than its normal operating level of 15.50 masl, placing it under a yellow or warning status, although still below the critical threshold. Both of its two sluice gates remain closed as of reporting time.
Meanwhile, the Aklan RIS-East in Barangay Sigcay, Banga, registered an elevation of 18.70 masl, exceeding its normal 18.20 masl. The NIA classified this within the warning range. No sluice gates have been opened.
At the Aklan RIS-West located in Barangay Kinalangay, Malinao, the water elevation was 18.20 masl, matching its normal operating level. The dam’s two sluice gates also remained closed.
The increase in elevation stems from continuous rainfall brought by Typhoon Tino across Western Visayas, which has already caused flooding in parts of Capiz and Aklan. NIA engineers said they are keeping close watch over the dams to ensure downstream safety and irrigation stability for rice-producing municipalities such as Banga, Ibajay, and Malinao.
‘All three dams are under close observation,’ the NIA Western Visayas office said, adding that the situation remains under control. The office urged residents in low-lying and downstream communities to stay alert for further rainfall or dam discharge advisories, especially if the storm intensifies or prolongs.
The public may contact NIA Region VI’s emergency hotlines, 0951-1227-056 and 0956-5562-463, for updates or coordination.
Officials reminded farmers and communities downstream that even small rises in water levels can cause rapid river swelling under sustained rainfall. Local DRRMCs have been placed on standby for any necessary preemptive evacuation should water discharges be needed