MANILA, Philippines — A total of 12 areas in the country logged “dangerous” level peak heat indices on Tuesday, or during Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor), said the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa).
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.”
Based on Pagasa’s latest computed heat index as of April 9, 5 p.m., the following areas registered a heat index above 42ºC (degrees Celsius):
- Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Pasay City, Metro Manila – 42ºC
- Dagupan City, Pangasinan – 44ºC
- Sangley Point, Cavite – 44ºC
- Ambulong, Tanauan, Batangas – 43ºC
- San Jose, Occidental Mindoro – 42ºC
- Puerto Princesa, Palawan – 43ºC
- Aborlan, Palawan – 43ºC
- Daet, Camarines Norte – 42ºC
- Virac (Synop), Catanduanes – 42ºC
- Roxas City, Capiz – 43ºC
- Catarman, Northern Samar – 42ºC
- Guiuan, Eastern Samar – 42ºC
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.
Two areas — Dagupan City in Pangasinan and Puerto Princesa in Palawan — have consistently recorded danger-level heat indexes in the past five days.
READ: Red Cross reminds public to stay hydrated amid high heat index
The public can 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