Dagupan heat spell continues on Tuesday (April 1)

(Stock photo)

MANILA, Philippines — A dangerous heat index level will continue in Dagupan City on Tuesday, according to the state weather bureau.

For this day, April 1, Dagupan is forecast to have a heat index of 46 degrees Celsius (°C), said the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa).

This is under the “danger” level heat index, which Dagupan has been experiencing for the past few weeks now, save for some days when it goes out a few notches below the category.

Pagasa said three other areas nationwide will also see similar levels of heat index.

Heat indices in Virac, Catanduanes, and Iba, Zambales, are predicted to reach 43°C, while Butuan City in Agusan del Norte is forecast to have 42°C.

Ranging from 42°C to 51°C, the heat index under the “danger” category can likely cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion, while heat stroke is probable with continued exposure to the sun.

Meanwhile, Tuesday’s heat indices in Pagasa’s stations at Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Pasay City and Science Garden in Quezon City may be at 37°C.

Behind the danger category is a heads-up for “extreme caution” ranging from 33 to 41°C and “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.

On March 26, Pagasa announced the start of the dry season in the country.