More LGUs declare suspension of on-site school classes

ONLINE CLASS Grade 10 student Jason Solis and cousin John Matthew attend a class orientation online in Makati City. — File photo from MARIANNE BERMUDEZ

MANILA, Philippines — More local government units announced the suspension of in-person school classes on Wednesday due to the scorching heat.

In separate advisories, the following cities announced the suspension of face-to-face classes and the shift to online or asynchronous mode for April 24:

San Juan City – all levels (public)

Malabon City – all levels (public)

Caloocan City – all levels (public)

Las Piñas City – all levels (public and private)

Navotas City – all levels (public and private)

Muntinlupa City – all levels (public and private)

Imus City, Cavite – all levels (public and private) until Friday, April 26

READ: On-site classes suspended as ‘danger’ level heat index hits anew

The heat index in Metro Manila may reach up to 44 degrees Celsius on Wednesday, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said.

Pagasa said temperatures ranging from 42 to 51 degrees Celsius fall under the “danger” category of heat indices.

According to the state weather bureau, people who are in areas under this category may experience heat cramps, exhaustion and even heat stroke after drawn-out exposure to heat.

To prevent the effects of sweltering 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 advises the following:

Move the person to a shady spot and lie him or 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.
If the person’s condition worsens, bring him or her to a hospital immediately.