By Brian Jules Campued
Heat index in at least 30 areas in the country are forecast to hit “danger level” on Friday, May 3, 2024, with as high as 47°C may be experienced in Dagupan City, Pangasinan and Aparri, Cagayan, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
Based on the bulletin from the state weather bureau as of 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, heat indices of 42°C to 45°C are likely to be experienced in the following parts of the country:
- Roxas City, Capiz – 45°C
- Laoag City, Ilocos Norte – 44°C
- Iba, Zambales – 44°C
- Cuyo, Palawan – 44°C
- Virac (Synop), Catanduanes – 44°C
- CBSUA (Central Bicol State University of Agriculture) Pili, Camarines Sur – 44°C
- Dumangas, Iloilo – 44°C
- Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Sur – 44°C
- Bacnotan, La Union – 43°C
- Tuguegarao City, Cagayan – 43°C
- Casiguran, Aurora – 43°C
- San Jose, Occidental Mindoro – 43°C
- Puerto Princesa, Palawan – 43°C
- Aborlan, Palawan – 43°C
- MMSU (Mariano Marcos State University) Batac, Ilocos Norte – 42°C
- Baler (Radar), Aurora – 42°C
- Cubi Pt., Subic Bay, Olongapo City – 42°C
- Infanta, Quezon – 42°C
- Coron, Palawan – 42°C
- Daet, Camarines Norte – 42°C
- Legazpi City, Albay – 42°C
- Masbate City, Masbate – 42°C
- Mambusao, Capiz – 42°C
- Iloilo City, Iloilo – 42°C
- La Granja, La Carlota, Negros Occidental – 42°C
- Catarman, Northern Samar – 42°C
- Catbalogan, Samar – 42°C
- Cotabato City, Maguindanao – 42°C
According to PAGASA, heat index is the measure of the temperature the human body feels relative to humidity. The ‘danger’ level consists of heat indices between 42°C to 51°C.
The state weather bureau, likewise, warns the public of the effects of prolonged exposure to extreme heat temperature — such as fatigue, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
To prevent heat-related illnesses, PAGASA advised the public to: limit time spent outdoors; drink plenty of water; avoid drinking tea, coffee, soda, as well as liquor; and use protective covers, such as umbrellas or hats. – av
