Water shortage looms in Metro Manila, Rizal as La Mesa Dam water level drops

East Zone concessionaire Manila Water has released a contingency plan for its customers as water levels at the La Mesa Dam continue to drop due to El Nino, according to a report on 24 Oras on Tuesday.

In a drone video, land is already visible across a large area of the La Mesa Dam. The Maynilad, which provides water services in the West Zone of Greater Metro Manila, said the lack of rain since the last quarter of 2018 contributes to the drop in water levels.

Residents of several barangays in Taguig City, Marikina City, and Pasig City could experience little to no water supply starting March 6. Areas in Rizal such Antipolo, Taytay, Rodriguez, and Jalajala could also be affected.

Manila Water provided several tips on how to use water responsibly:

• Always make sure that taps/ faucets are tightly closed.
• Regularly check leaks and have it repaired immediately.
• Recycle water. For example, collect water used to wash dishes and reuse for flushing the toilet.
• When doing laundry by hand, soak heavily soiled clothes first to remove dirt easily. Use a basin or wash tub with the right amount of water. Don’t let the basin overflow under a running tap.
• When doing the laundry by washing machine, wash with a full load only every other day.
• Use the necessary amount of detergent so that less rinsing is required.
• When bathing, use a pail and dipper instead of the shower.Turn off tap while washing, shaving or brushing teeth. Use a glass of water for gargling.
• Instead of using running water, fill a basin or half of the sink with water to soak, soap, and rinse dishes or to clean fruits/ vegetables.
• Do not thaw frozen food under a running tap. Bring out frozen food early enough to thaw
• at room temperature before cooking.
• Water plants, garden, or lawn during cool parts of the day like early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
• When washing the car, use a pail not a water hose, and a cotton rag instead of a sponge.
• Report leaks, illegal connections, defective meters and unauthorized withdrawal of water from fire hydrants to Manila Water.

According to PAGASA, the country has started to feel the "weak El Nino" in February.

Ilocos Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Maguindanao at Sulu experienced droughts due to El Nino last month.

By the end of March, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro at Palawan could be added to the list. More areas could also experience drought by April and May.

Temperatures are rising in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean, which is associated with the lack of rain experienced by the country.

PAGASA expects the rainy season to be delayed this year, predicting the start of the rainy weather to be in July. — Marisse Panaligan/MDM, GMA News