Laguna Lake water level stays above critical mark, flood risk remains

Laguna de Bay's water level remained at 12.65 meters on Thursday, exceeding its critical-high mark of 12.50 meters, according to the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA), due to persistent torrential rains from the southwest monsoon and a Low Pressure Area. The reading was unchanged from Wednesday but 2 centimeters lower than Tuesday's 12.67-meter peak. The LLDA urged lakeshore residents to remain vigilant, as rising levels increase flood risk in low-lying communities, with the lake serving as a natural catch basin for watersheds in Laguna, Rizal, and parts of Metro Manila. Separately, fisherfolk group Pamalakaya reported over 20,000 kilograms of tilapia and bighead carp died in a fish kill affecting more than 30 cages in Jala-jala, Rizal, with losses estimated at P700,000. Fishers suspect chemical waste, though the LLDA has not yet issued a report on the incident.