Heat index in Isabela town soars to 43°C

Isabela map. INQUIRER FILES

ECHAGUE, Isabela — The heat index in this town soared once again to a sweltering 43 degrees Celsius on Monday (April 21), according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa).

In response, Isabela Governor Rodolfo Albano III ordered the suspension of classes across all levels in the province’s 34 towns and two component cities, excluding the independent Santiago City. The suspension covers kindergarten, elementary, and secondary classes in both public and private schools.

A heat index of “42°C to 51°C is classified as a “danger” category, with a risk for heat stroke, according to Pagasa.

However, the impact of the rising temperature on students was minimal, as most public schools have already ended classes following graduation ceremonies. Similarly, many private schools have completed their academic year, according to officials from the Department of Education.

“The heat was so intense that we had to drink more than eight glasses of water a day and stay indoors as much as possible,” said Arianne Aguinaldo, 25, a resident of Echague.

Merlito Edale Jr., information center chief of the Philippine Information Agency in Isabela, noted the importance of following government health advisories during extreme weather conditions.

“We should stay indoors during peak heat hours and keep ourselves well-hydrated,” he advised. INQ

READ: ‘Danger’ heat index seen in Pasay, 18 other locations