The release began at 7h on 25/11, with flow rates ranging from 28 to 200 m3/s, and is scheduled to continue until 2/12.

This action was undertaken by the Southern Irrigation Exploitation One-Member Limited Company, based on forecasts from the Central Hydro-Meteorological Center. The lake's current water level stands at 23,90 m, which is 0,5 m below the maximum pre-flood level of 24,40 m. The release volume may be adjusted, increasing or decreasing, depending on actual rainfall, flood conditions, and downstream tidal levels.

Dau Tieng lake releases water. Photo: Thai Ha.

The company has notified relevant localities, agencies, and residents along the Saigon river to take precautionary measures against potential damage and to plan their production activities accordingly.

According to authorities, the maximum release rate of 200 m3/s from Dau Tieng lake, under normal circumstances, is not expected to cause flooding in residential areas along the Saigon river. However, localized inundation in low-lying areas could occur if heavy rainfall coincides with the water release.

This preemptive measure follows earlier forecasts regarding Typhoon 15, which was projected to enter Vietnam. Numerous hydropower and irrigation reservoirs across the Southern Central Coast and Southeast regions had already commenced spillway releases to mitigate flooding in downstream areas ahead of anticipated heavy rains. This was particularly crucial for reservoirs that were already at full capacity in basins recently affected by historical floods, such as the Ba Ha, Hinh, Cai Nha Trang, and Dong Nai rivers.

Dau Tieng lake spans three provinces: Tay Ninh, TP HCM, and Dong Nai. It covers an area of over 270 km2 and holds a fresh water capacity of 1,58 billion m3. The facility serves multiple objectives, including providing water for domestic use and production, flood prevention, environmental improvement, and combating saltwater intrusion for the lower Saigon river and Vam Co Dong.

Phuoc Tuan