By Brian Campued
At least 18 areas across the country will continue to experience “dangerous” heat index levels on Saturday, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
The state weather bureau said Sangley Point in Cavite City is forecast to hit 45°C, while Dagupan City in Pangasinan will reach 44°C.
Meanwhile, heat indices in the following areas may reach 42°C to 43°C:
- Isabela State University (ISU) – Echague, Isabela – 43°C
- Tarlac Agricultural University – Camiling, Tarlac – 43°C
- Ambulong, Tanauan, Batangas – 43°C
- Iloilo City, Iloilo – 43°C
- Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), Pasay City – 42°C
- Tuguegarao City, Cagayan – 42°C
- Cubi Port, Subic Bay, Olongapo City – 42°C
- San Ildefonso, Bulacan – 42°C
- Infanta, Quezon – 42°C
- San Jose, Occidental Mindoro – 42°C
- Cuyo, Palawan – 42°C
- Virac (Synop), Catanduanes – 42°C
- Masbate City, Masbate – 42°C
- Roxas City, Capiz – 42°C
- Dumangas, Iloilo – 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” category 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; and seek medical assistance.
To prevent heat-related illnesses, the DOH advised the public to limit time spent outdoors; drink plenty of water; wear light clothing; and use protective covers, such as umbrellas or hats.
Meanwhile, in its daily weather update, PAGASA said that the easterlies will bring cloudy skies with scattered rains and thunderstorms over Zamboanga Peninsula, as well as in Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi.
Metro Manila and the rest of the country will experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms also due to the easterlies.
No low pressure areas are being monitored for possible tropical cyclone formation, the state weather bureau said.
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