MANILA, Philippines — The heat index in eleven areas across the country soared to dangerous levels anew, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa).
Pagasa said 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.”
Based on Pagasa’s latest computed heat index as of April 10, 5 p.m., the following areas registered a heat index above 42ºC (degrees Celsius):
- Laoag, Ilocos Norte – 42ºC
- Dagupan City, Pangasinan – 44ºC
- Bacnotan, La Union – 43ºC
- Puerto Princesa, Palawan – 43ºC
- Aborlan, Palawan – 43ºC
- Masbate City, Masbate – 42ºC
- Roxas City, Capiz – 42ºC
- Dumangas, Iloilo – 42ºC
- Catarman, Northern Samar – 42ºC
- Zamboanga City, Zamboanga Del Sur – 42ºC
- Cotabato City, Maguindanao – 42ºC
A heat index of from 42ºC to 51ºC is considered under the danger category, potentially causing heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke during continued exposure, and other heat related illnesses.
Symptoms of heat related illnesses include heavy sweating, exhaustion or fatigue, dizziness or lightheadedness, passing out or feeling dizzy when standing, weak but rapid pulse, nausea and vomiting.
Such effects can be prevented 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 strenuous activities on the cooler periods of the day.
In cases of heat-related medical emergencies, Pagasa advises 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 hospital immediately