Students in Olongapo City sent home amid dangerous heat index

INQUIRER FILES

OLONGAPO CITY — Students in this city were sent home from their schools on Thursday (April 25) as the heat index was expected to peak at 45 degrees Celsius.

Acting Mayor Jong Cortez said the early dismissal of all classes in both public and private schools started at 10 a.m.

He said the class suspension was to avoid possible health risks to public and private school learners.

According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, the heat index is already at a dangerous level when it ranges from 42°C to 51°C.

READ: Olongapo City to experience dangerous heat index for 2 straight days 

The heat index refers to the levels of discomfort felt due to the impacts of temperature and air humidity.

Cortez had also asked the Department of Education Schools Division Olongapo, private school administrators, and higher education officials “to implement asynchronous or online classes as necessary.”

“In the course of the class suspension due to health concerns, I expect that learners to be home, avoid heat exposure, and not be outdoors doing activities risky to their health,” Cortez added. INQ