Dangerous 42ºC – 43ºC heat index hits 7 areas

MANILA, Philippines —  Seven areas registered a “danger category” heat index on Wednesday, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa).

Heat index, as defined by Pagasa, is “a measure of the contribution that high humidity makes with abnormally high temperatures in reducing the body’s ability to cool itself.”

 Once it hits 42ºC (degrees Celsius) to 51ºC, Pagasa considers it under the “danger category,” and warns that it may cause heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke with prolonged heat exposure.

Based on Pagasa’s latest computed heat index recorded nationwide as of 5 p.m., a peak heat index of 43ºC was recorded in the following areas:

Dagupan City, Pangasinan

Dumangas, Iloilo

Catarman, Northern Samar

Meanwhile, a peak heat index 42ºC was recorded in:

Sangley Point, Cavite

Puerto Princesa, Palawan

Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Sur

Cotabato City, Maguindanao

Pagasa reminds the public to do the following in case of heat exhaustion or heat stroke:

 – Move the person to a shady spot and lie him/her down with legs

elevated. 

 – If conscious, have them sip cool water.

 – Loosen 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