MANILA, Philippines — Seventeen areas in the Visayas and Mindanao experienced a dangerous heat index on Wednesday, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa).
Heat index refers to the measure of the contribution that high humidity makes with abnormally high temperatures in reducing the body’s ability to cool itself.
A heat index ranging from 42 degrees celsius to 51 degrees celsius is automatically considered by Pagasa under the “danger category.”
Once it reaches the danger category, it may cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke during continued exposure.
Based on Pagasa’s latest computed heat index as of April 17, 5:00 p.m., the following areas registered a dangerous heat index:
- Dagupan City, Pangasinan – 44ºC
- Batac, La Union – 42ºC
- Bacnotan, La Union – 42ºC
- Tuguegarao City, Cagayan – 42ºC
- Echague, Isabela – 42ºC
- Sangley Point, Cavite – 42ºC
- Ambulong, Tanauan Batangas – 43ºC
- Coron, Palawan – 42ºC
- San Jose, Occidental Mindoro – 42ºC
- Puerto Princesa, Palawan – 44ºC
- Aborlan, Palawan – 44ºC
- Virac, Catanduanes – 42ºC
- Roxas City, Capiz r – 42ºC
- Iloilo City, Iloilo – 42ºC
- Dumangas, Iloilo – 43ºC
- Catarman, Northern Samar – 44ºC
- Guiuan, Eastern Samar – 43ºC
In cases of heat-related medical emergencies 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 them sip cool water
- Loosen tight clothing, apply cool water to the skin and provide ventilation
- Apply ice packs to the armpits, wrists, ankles, and groin
- Bring to hospital immediately