Water shortage grips Northern Samar capital as El Niño strengthens

TACLOBAN CITY, LEYTE, Philippines — At least 31 of 55 barangays in Catarman, Northern Samar, are already experiencing reduced water supply as the local government prepares for worsening dry conditions brought by the El Niño phenomenon.

This prompted local officials to explore additional water sources and urge residents to conserve water.

The Catarman Water District has begun rationing water in affected communities since last month and is planning to secure a bulk water supplier to serve as a buffer source as available supplies come under increasing pressure. It is also expanding water connections in barangays to improve access to potable water.

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The 31 affected barangays have a combined population of around 36,500. Catarman, the provincial capital of Northern Samar, has a population of over 97,000.

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The local office of the state weather bureau earlier warned that temperatures would continue to rise in the coming months, with El Niño expected to reach its peak by December this year.

Dry spell and drought conditions could persist until the middle of 2027, raising concerns about water availability, agricultural production, public health and fire risks in the town.

The projected prolonged dry conditions have prompted the Catarman local government to strengthen its preparations, particularly for communities already experiencing water shortages.

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Residents, barangay officials and schools have been urged to prepare water storage containers and practice water conservation to help ensure that available supplies will last longer.

Potential agri losses

Aside from the water shortage, Catarman is also facing potential losses in agriculture and livestock production. The Municipal Veterinary Office reported chicken deaths in Barangay Macagtas, which were linked to excessive heat.

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Continued dry weather could damage crops and reduce the availability of feed for livestock, threatening farmers’ livelihoods and local food production, it added. The office, however, did not provide other details on this.

The Bureau of Fire Protection in Catarman has also reported 33 grassfire incidents since March this year, with most occurring in the villages of Daganas, Dalakit and Libjo.

Authorities have reminded the public against burning grass, leaves and other vegetation to prevent fires from spreading, particularly during prolonged dry conditions.

Public health is another concern as rising temperatures and potentially contaminated water sources could increase the risk of skin infections and waterborne diseases, including cholera.

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The Municipal Health Office also reported 160 dengue cases in Catarman as of Oct. 3. It is intensifying health education and disease monitoring while preparing additional supplies of water-purification tablets intended to help disinfect drinking water. —Joey A. Gabieta