By Brian Jules Campued
A total of 37 areas across the country will continue to experience “dangerous” heat index levels on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
The state weather bureau said the heat index in Dagupan City, Pangasinan is forecast to hit 47°C, while Pili, Camarines Sur and Roxas City, Capis will experience 46°C.
Meanwhile, heat indices in the following areas may reach 42°C to 45°C:
- Bacnotan, La Union – 45°C
- Virac, Catanduanes – 45°C
- MMSU, Batac, Ilocos Norte – 44°C
- Aparri, Cagayan – 44°C
- Alabat, Quezon – 44°C
- Cuyo, Palawan – 44°C
- Masbate City, Masbate – 44°C
- Dumangas, Iloilo – 44°C
- Catarman, Northern Samar – 44°C
- Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Sur – 44°C
- NAIA, Pasay City – 43°C
- Tuguegarao City, Cagayan – 43°C
- ISU Echague, Isabela – 43°C
- Iba, Zambales – 43°C
- Sangley Point, Cavite – 43°C
- Ambulong, Tanauan, Batangas – 43°C
- Coron, Palawan – 43°C
- San Jose, Occidental Mindoro – 43°C
- Puerto Princesa City, Palawan – 43°C
- Aborlan, Palawan – 43°C
- Iloilo City, Iloilo – 43°C
- Catbalogan, Samar – 43°C
- Butuan City, Agusan del Norte – 43°C
- Science Garden, Quezon City – 42°C
- Sinait, Ilocos Sur – 42°C
- Laoag City, Ilocos Norte – 42°C
- Cubi Pt., Subic Bay, Olongapo City – 42°C
- Calapan, Oriental Mindoro – 42°C
- Daet, Camarines Norte – 42°C
- Legazpi City, Albay – 42°C
- Mambusao, Capiz – 42°C
- Guiuan, Eastern Samar – 42°C
- Maasin, Southern Leyte – 42°C
- Dipolog, Zamboanga del Norte – 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.
For those who might experience symptoms of heat-related illnesses, the Department of Health (DOH) said the individual should immediately take shelter under roofed buildings or places that may provide shade away from the sun; remove thick pieces of clothing; use cold compress; slowly drink cold water; and seek medical assistance.
To prevent heat-related illnesses, the DOH advised the public to limit time spent outdoors; drink plenty of water; avoid drinking tea, coffee, soda, and liquor; wear light clothing; and use protective covers, such as umbrellas or hats. – avds
