Two areas in Cagayan may hit 42 Celsius heat index – Pagasa

Children enjoy an afternoon dip and slide at Bustos Dam in Bustos, Bulacan on Sunday, April 30, 2023. (INQUIRER file photo / GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE)

MANILA, Philippines — Two areas in Cagayan Valley may reach a heat index of 42 degrees Celsius on Wednesday.

Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) issued the forecast.

The report is based on its list of areas with the highest heat indices as of Tuesday afternoon.

Pagasa defines heat index as “a measure of the contribution that high humidity makes with abnormally high temperatures in reducing the body’s ability to cool itself.”

Aparri and Tuguegarao City in Cagayan were predicted to have a heat index of 42 degrees Celsius.

Based on Pagasa’s definitions, a heat index between 42 degrees Celsius and 51 degrees Celsius belongs to the “danger category.”

Such a heat index may cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion, with the possibility of heat stroke, especially after continued exposure to the sun.

Meanwhile, no areas are expected to reach the “danger category” heat index on Thursday, March 7.

Apart from Aparri and Tuguegarao, other areas have previously experienced a danger level heat index this March.

The places include Bacnotan in La Union, Calapan in Oriental Mindoro, Coron in Palawan and Cotabato City.

Meanwhile, Pagasa advised the public to prevent suffering from the effects of high heat by limiting the time spent outdoors, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding tea, coffee, soda and liquor.

It also suggests using umbrellas, wearing hats and sleeved clothing outdoors, and scheduling heavy-duty activities during the cool periods of the day.

In case of emergency, Pagasa reminded the people to do the following:

– Move the person who is feeling ill to a shady spot and lie him/her down with legs elevated.

– If conscious, have the person sip cool water.

– Remove clothing.

– Apply cool water to the skin and provide ventilation.

– Put ice packs on the armpits, wrists, ankles and groin.

– If difficulty persists, bring the person to a hospital immediately.