Pagasa: Dangerous 42ºC heat index expected in 5 areas on Wednesday

MANILA, Philippines — Five areas are forecast to experience a dangerous heat index of 42ºC (degrees Celsius) on Wednesday, the state weather bureau said on Tuesday.

 According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), the heat index is “a measure of the contribution that high humidity makes with abnormally high temperatures in reducing the body’s ability to cool itself.”

A heat index exceeding 42ºC and reaching 51ºC enters the “danger category,” potentially leading to heat-related ailments such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke with prolonged exposure.

Based on Pagasa’s latest heat index forecast as of 5 p.m., Guiuan, Eastern Samar; Catarman, Northern Samar; Dumangas, Iloilo; CBSUA-Pili, Camarines Sur and Aparri, Cagayan are all forecast to hit a peak heat index of 42ºC on Wednesday.

Pagasa advises the public to prevent the effects of high heat by limiting the time spent outdoors; drinking plenty of water; avoiding tea, coffee, soda and liquor, using umbrellas, hats and sleeved clothing outdoors and scheduling heavy-duty activities on the cooler periods of the day.

Symptoms of heat related illnesses include heavy sweating, exhaustion or fatigue, dizziness or lightheadedness, blacking out or feeling dizzy when standing, weak but fast pulse, nausea and vomiting.

In cases of emergency, Pagasa reminded the public to do the following:

• Move the person to a shady spot and lie him/her down with legs
• elevated. 
• If conscious, have them sip cool water.
• Remove clothing, apply cool water to the skin and provide ventilation.
• Apply ice packs to the armpits, wrists, ankles, and groin.
• Bring to a hospital immediately