Heat index in Olongapo City seen to reach ‘danger’ level

The coastline of Barangay Barretto, Olongapo City appears deserted in this photo taken on Wednesday, March 27, when the heat index reached 41 degrees Celsius. On Maundy Thursday, the heat index was forecast to peak at 42 °C, which is considered “dangerous.” | PHOTO: Joanna Rose Aglibot

OLONGAPO CITY — The heat index in this city was seen peaking at 42 degrees Celsius on Maundy Thursday, March 28, which was higher than the maximum heat index recorded the previous day.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said 42 °C is already classified under the “danger” level.

Heat index measures the discomfort an average person feels due to the combined effects of temperature and air humidity.

READ: Olongapo folk warned of exhaustion with near-danger level heat

On Wednesday, the city’s heat index peaked at 41 °C, particularly in Cubi Point inside the Subic Bay Freeport.

The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office advised residents here to watch out for heat cramps and exhaustion, even stroke, with prolonged exposure to the sweltering heat.

Pagasa said the city could experience a higher heat index on Good Friday. INQ