Dangerous 44ºC heat index hits Tuguegarao City and Catarman

MANILA, Philippines — A dangerous heat index of 44ºC (degrees Celsius) was recorded in Tuguegarao City, Cagayan and Catarman, Northern Samar on Thursday,  according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa).

As defined by the state weather bureau, 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.”

Once it reaches 42ºC to 51ºC, Pagasa considers it part of the “danger category” as it may cause heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke during continued exposure.

Based on Pagasa’s latest computed heat index, as of 5 p.m. Thursday, a peak heat index of 44ºC was recorded in Tuguegarao City, Cagayan, the highest since March 31.

A peak heat index of 44ºC was also registered in Catarman, Samar, four days after last recording a peak of 45ºC on March 31.

Meanwhile, four other areas also logged “danger category” heat indexes at 42ºC – Dagupan City, Pangasinan;  Aparri, Cagayan; San Jose, Occidental Mindoro and Aborlan, Palawan.

In cases of heat exhaustion / heat stroke, Pagasa reminds 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.
• 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