Water levels in major rivers in Pangasinan have dropped to below alert levels as prolonged heat and limited rainfall continue to be experienced in the province, weather officials said.

The Agno, Sinocalan, and Cayanga rivers are now below 40 percent capacity, according to the PAGASA Agno River Basin Flood Forecasting and Warning Center.

“‘Pag sinabi nating below alert, nasa below 40 percent capacity ‘yung ating kailugan diyan. Masyadong mababang-mababa ‘yung tubig sa (mga ilog) ngayon,” Engr. Greg De Vera II, senior weather specialist, said.

Despite occasional rains, authorities said these are not enough to raise water levels significantly in the province’s major rivers.

Experts warned that the situation could affect irrigation, especially as the dry season is expected to continue.

“‘Yun ang nakikita nating dahilan na medyo kukulangin yung tubig doon sa kanilang mga pananim lalo na dahil medyo mahaba-haba pa itong tag-init,” De Vera added.

Residents are advised to conserve water, particularly those living near river systems and relying on irrigation for farming.

Meanwhile, the heat index in parts of Pangasinan remains at dangerous levels, according to PAGASA.

Modesto Poscablo, a pedicab driver, said he has adjusted his routine to cope with the heat.

“Siyempre magpunta muna sa lilim… Meron [ako na baon na tubig],” he said.

Authorities also warned vulnerable groups, especially senior citizens, to limit exposure to extreme heat.

“Yung antas na ‘yan ay nasa danger category na, so babala sa ating mga senior na gaya natin na huwag pagala-gala sa mga area lalong-lalo na sa mga maiinit,” Engr. Jose Estrada Jr., chief meteorological officer of PAGASA-Dagupan, said.

Officials continue to monitor weather conditions and urged the public to take precautions against both water shortage and heat-related illnesses.