Cloud-seeding operations to continue until July

CITY OF MALOLOS, Philippines — As the water level continues to drop at Angat Dam in Bulacan, the primary source of potable water of Metro Manila residents, the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) of the Department of Agriculture continues to conducting cloud seeding operations to induce more rains.

Records at the provincial government of Bulacan showed that from 169.63 meters on Thursday, the water level at Angat Dam was monitored at 168.96 meters yesterday morning.

Mary Joy David, BSWM project development officer II, told The STAR that they are still conducting monitoring activities to search for clouds that could be used for cloud seeding operations within the victinity of Angat and the La Mesa watershed that is the main reservoir of Metro Manila’s potable water supply.

The cloud seeding operations have been extended until July, David added.

David said the cloud seeding operations started on April 10 to help replenish the dwindling water level at Angat and La Mesa dams.

The dam’s primary purpose is the supply of potable water to Metro Manila residents, power generation and irrigation of farmland in Central Luzon.

The National Water Resources Board has given water allocation for irrigation for Bulacan and Pampanga farmlands only up to May 15 this year.

Farmlands in the two provinces now rely on rains.