(Stock photo)
MANILA, Philippines — Dagupan City is predicted to experience a “dangerous” level of heat index on Wednesday, March 26, according to the state weather bureau.
This has been the condition in the area for three days straight.
The city is forecast to have a heat index of 47 degrees Celsius (°C) per the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa).
Dagupan’s heat index this week started to breach the danger level on Monday at 43°C, while Tuesday’s temperature was recorded at 47°C.
Aside from Dagupan City, San Ildefonso in Bulacan is also seen to have a danger level heat index on Wednesday at 43°C.
Ranging from 42 to 51°C, the heat index under the “danger” category is likely to cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion, while heat stroke is probable with continued exposure to the sun.
Meanwhile, Wednesday’s heat index in Pagasa’s stations at Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Pasay City sees 39°C while the Science Garden in Quezon City indicates a temperature of 38°C.
The danger category meant the public must take “extreme caution” since the weather will range from 33 to 41°C.
Weather may also be under the category of “caution” at 27 to 32°C.
“Extreme danger,” or the highest category of heat index level, is declared when the heat index temperature reaches 52°C and beyond.
Heat index measures the level of discomfort an average person experiences due to the combined effects of the temperature and air humidity.
Pagasa has yet to declare the start of summer in the country.