By Brian Jules Campued
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said the heat index in at least 25 areas in the country are forecast to hit “danger level” on Thursday, May 9, 2024, with as high as 45°C may be experienced in Dagupan City, Pangasinan; Virac, Catanduanes; and Roxas City, Capiz.
Based on the bulletin from the state weather bureau, as of 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, heat indices of 42°C to 44°C are likely to be experienced in the following parts of the country:
- Puerto Princesa City, Palawan – 44°C
- Aborlan, Palawan – 44°C
- Cuyo, Palawan – 44°C
- Laoag, Ilocos Norte – 43°C
- MMSU (Mariano Marcos State University) – 43°C
- Bacnotan, La Union – 43°C
- Dumangas, Iloilo – 43°C
- Guiuan, Eastern Samar – 43°C
- NAIA (Ninoy Aquino International Airport), Pasay City – 42°C
- Sinait, Ilocos Sur – 42°C
- Iba, Zambales – 42°C
- Clark Airport (DMIA), Pampanga – 42°C
- CLSU (Central Luzon State University), Nueva Ecija – 42°C
- Cubi Pt., Subic Bay, Olongapo City – 42°C
- San Jose, Occidental Mindoro – 42°C
- Legazpi City, Albay – 42°C
- Masbate City, Masbate – 42°C
- CBSUA (Central Bicol State University of Agriculture), Pili, Camarines Sur – 42°C
- Mambusao, Capiz – 42°C
- Iloilo City, Iloilo – 42°C
- Catarman, Northern Samar – 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.
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.
