Students use an umbrella to fend off the heat on Wednesday, March 29, 2017. (File photo by GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE / Philippine Daily Inquirer)
MANILA, Philippines — A peak heat index ranging from 42ºC to 46ºC was recorded in 15 areas on Tuesday, 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.”
According to Pagasa, a heat index ranging from 42ºC to 51ºC is considered part of the “danger category” as it may cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion — and even heat stroke with continued exposure.
Based on Pagasa’s latest computed heat index as of 5 p.m. on Tuesday, April 16, the following areas registered a heat index of or above 42ºC:
- Dagupan City, Pangasinan: 43ºC
- Bacnotan, La Union: 43ºC
- Aparri, Cagayan: 42ºC
- Tuguegarao City, Cagayan: 42ºC
- Casiguran, Aurora: 42ºC
- Sangley Point, Cavite: 42ºC
- Ambulong, Tanauan, Batangas: 44ºC
- Puerto Princesa, Palawan: 44ºC
- Aborlan, Palawan: 46ºC
- Virac, Catanduanes: 42ºC
- Pili, Camarines Sur: 42ºC
- Iloilo City, Iloilo: 43ºC
- Dumangas, Iloilo: 43ºC
- Catarman, Northern Samar: 42ºC
- Tacloban City, Leyte: 43ºC
READ: Red Cross reminds public to stay hydrated amid high heat index
Symptoms of heat-related illnesses can be prevented by observing some precautions:
- Limit the time spent outdoors.
- Drink plenty of water, and avoid taking tea, coffee, soda, and liquor.
- Use umbrellas, hats, and sleeved clothing outdoors.
- Schedule heavy-duty activities for the cooler periods of the day.
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 the person 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.