Manila suspends on-site classes until Friday due to heat forecast

MANILA, Philippines — The City of Manila on Wednesday announced the suspension of in-person classes in all levels, both public and private, until Friday, April 26.

“This is due to the forecasted danger heat index level of 44°C according to the Manila Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office,” the Manila City Public Information Office said in an advisory.

“Schools are advised to shift to asynchronous classes,” it added.

Prior to this suspension, Manila also suspended all of its classes on Wednesday, April 24, due to the forecast heat index.

The state weather bureau defines heat index as the “measure of the contribution that high humidity makes with abnormally high temperatures in reducing the body’s ability to cool itself.”

Once it reaches 42 degrees to 51 degrees Celsius, it is automatically considered part of the “danger category,” which may lead to various heat-related illnesses such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke during continued exposure.

According to the DOH in a previous advisory, symptoms of heat cramps include muscle cramps, fatigue, dizziness, headache, and vomiting, while heat exhaustion is characterized by fatigue, weakness, headache, nausea.

Signs and symptoms of heat stroke include loss of consciousness, confusion or disorientation and even heart attack.

It advised the public to find shade and rest, remove layered clothing, apply a cold compress, drink cold water slowly, and seek immediate medical assistance once they experience similar symptoms.

Meanwhile, heat-related illnesses can be avoided by staying hydrated, avoiding sodas, iced tea, coffee, and alcoholic drinks, wearing loose and light clothes, limiting outdoor activities, and wearing protection against the sun, such as caps, umbrellas, and sunscreen, the DOH added.