The heat index in 17 areas nationwide is predicted to reach between 42ºC and 44ºC on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa). (INQUIRER.net STOCK PHOTO)
MANILA, Philippines — The heat index in 17 areas nationwide is predicted to range from 42ºC and 44ºC on Wednesday, April 17.
A heat index of 44ºC may be expected in the following places, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa):
- Dagupan City, Pangasinan
- Ambulong, Tanauan, Batangas
- Puerto Princesa City, Palawan
- Aborlan, Palawan
A heat index of 43ºC is likely in the following places:
- Bacnotan, La Union
- Sangley Point, Cavite
- Central Bicol State University of Agriculture, Pili, Camarines Sur
- Iloilo City, Iloilo
- Dumangas, Iloilo
- Catarman, Northern Samar
Meanwhile, a 42ºC heat index may be felt in the following places:
- Aparri, Cagayan
- Tuguegarao City, Cagayan
- Isabela State University in Echague, Isabela
- Cubi Point, Subic Bay, Olongapo City
- San Jose, Occidental Mindoro
- Virac, Catanduanes
- Tacloban City, Leyte
READ: Chance of LPA outside PAR becoming a typhoon is low, says 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.”
Its heat index classification system consists of four categories:
- Caution: 27 to 32ºC
- Extreme Caution: 33 to 41ºC
- Danger: 42 to 51ºC
- Extreme Danger: 52ºC and beyond
READ: Heat index outlook for April 16: Dangerous 42°C to 46°C in 24 areas
Under the “danger” category, heat cramps and heat exhaustion may occur, while people continually exposed to high heat may experience heat stroke, according to Pagasa.
Pagasa urged the public to take extra precautions against extreme temperatures, such as drinking plenty of water, wearing heat-protection clothing, and limiting time spent outdoors.