Olongapo residents are bracing for a higher temperature as the heat index in the city was forecast to reach the “dangerous” level on April 17, 2024. Image: INQUIRER.net stock photo
OLONGAPO CITY — Residents here are bracing for a higher temperature as the heat index in the city was forecast to reach the “dangerous” level on Wednesday.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), the city’s heat index will peak at 42 degrees Celsius on April 17.
Pagasa said the heat index is the degree of discomfort experienced by an average person due to the combined effects of temperature and air humidity.
The weather agency said the temperature is classified as within the danger level when it reaches 42°C up to 51°C.
In previous weeks, Olongapo City’s heat index lingered only between 39 degrees Celsius and 41 degrees Celsius, but this has already affected the major local sources of water supply.
READ: April 17 heat index outlook: 17 areas to feel 42°C to 44°C temperature
Pagasa said the heat index in 17 areas nationwide is predicted to reach between 42 degrees Celsius and 44 degrees Celsius on Wednesday.
It said a 44-degree Celsius heat index may be expected in Dagupan City, Pangasinan; Ambulong, Tanauan, Batangas; Puerto Princesa City, Palawan; and Aborlan, Palawan.
It also said that a heat index of 43 degrees Celsius is likely in Bacnotan, La Union; Sangley Point, Cavite; Central Bicol State University of Agriculture, Pili, Camarines Sur; Iloilo City, Iloilo; Dumangas, Iloilo; and Catarman, Northern Samar.
Pagasa added that a 42-degree Celsius heat index may be felt Wednesday in Aparri, Cagayan; Tuguegarao City, Cagayan; Isabela State University, Echague, Isabela; Cubi Pt., Subic Bay, Olongapo City; San Jose, Occidental Mindoro; Virac, Catanduanes; and Tacloban City, Leyte.
The state weather agency’s current heat index classification system consists of four categories:
- Caution: 27 to 32 degrees Celsius
- Extreme Caution: 33 to 41 degrees Celsius
- Danger: 42 to 51 degrees Celsius
- Extreme Danger: 52 degrees Celsius and beyond
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.