FILE PHOTO: A man and his two children enjoy the waters at Bustos Dam in Bulacan province on Sunday afternoon. —GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE
MANILA, Philippines — Six areas are forecast to reach “dangerous” heat index on Saturday, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said.
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.”
READ: Red Cross reminds public to stay hydrated amid high heat index
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 forecast heat index, a heat index of 43ºC (degrees Celsius) is expected in Catarman, Northern Samar and Aborlan, Palawan.
Meanwhile, a heat index of 42ºC may prevail over San Jose, Occidental Mindoro; Puerto Princesa, Palawan; Masbate City, Masbate and Dumangas, Iloilo.
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