Iloilo City – The Iloilo provincial government is taking proactive measures to enhance the disaster preparedness of its local government units (LGUs) in anticipation of the La Niña weather phenomenon. The initiative focuses on updating the inventory of early warning systems for floods and monitoring rainfall and water levels across several key river basins.
According to Philippines News Agency, efforts are underway to perform a comprehensive inventory of manual rain gauges (MRGs) in upstream towns such as Calinog, Lambunao, Janiuay, and Maasin. This inventory is crucial for monitoring the Ulian River in Lambunao, the Jalaur River in Calinog, and the Tigum and Salog Rivers in Maasin. The Ulian and Jalaur rivers converge at Barangay Imbang Pequeño in Passi City, impacting downstream towns including Dueñas, Dingle, Pototan, Zarraga, Dumangas, and Barotac Nuevo. Similarly, the river basins in Maasin influence the flood risks in Sta. Barbara, Cabatuan, Maasin, and Pavia.
“We need to have instruments to monitor rainfall volume and water level of our river basins,” Salinas emphasized, pointing out the necessity for additional equipment to enhance data accuracy from the ground. The provincial government had previously issued some instruments, but more are needed to ensure comprehensive coverage.
The inventory revealed specific needs in the municipalities. Lambunao already possesses automated weather stations and strategically placed MRGs but is looking to install automated water-level sensors at the Barangay Agsirab Bridge. Calinog is facing challenges with two non-functional MRGs and currently relies on traditional knowledge and a 24/7 radio communication system to predict rainfall. The LGU has requested ten MRGs to bolster their flood monitoring capabilities. Additionally, Janiuay and Maasin are also seeking to expand their MRG setups to enhance their respective flood monitoring systems.
Salinas further mentioned that the governor is advocating for the acquisition of manual rain gauges, particularly to aid southern towns that frequently experience flash floods.