Hot weather. INQUIRER FILES / STOCK IMAGE
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said a sweltering 45-degree Celsius heat index may be felt by dwellers of Dagupan City, while Aparri in Cagayan will have it at 44 degrees Celsius.
Laoag City, Ilocos Norte; Tuguegarao City, Cagayan; Puerto Princesa City, Palawan; Aborlan, Palawan; Masbate City, Masbate; the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture in Pili, Camarines Sur; and Catarman, Northern Samar will experience a heat index of 42 degrees Celsius, Pagasa added.
READ: Dangerous heat index logged in 6 areas on April 12
According to Pagasa, a heat index is categorized as dangerous when it falls between 42 degrees Celsius and 51 degrees Celsius.
A danger category heat index may trigger heat cramps, exhaustion, and even heat stroke with prolonged exposure.
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.”
To prevent the effects of roasting weather, Pagasa said the public must limit time spent outdoors; drink plenty of water; avoid tea, coffee, soda, and liquor; use umbrellas, wear hats, and wear sleeved clothing outdoors; and schedule heavy-duty activities on the cooler periods of the day.
It added that symptoms of heat-related illnesses include heavy sweating, exhaustion or fatigue, dizziness or lightheadedness, blacking out or feeling dizzy when standing, a weak but fast pulse, nausea, and vomiting.
In cases of emergency, Pagasa advised the following:
- Move the person to a shady spot and lie him or 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