Aparri, Cotabato log ‘danger’ level heat indices on April 22

MANILA, Philippines — Two areas registered “danger” level peak heat indices on Wednesday, April 22,  said the state weather bureau.

Based on data released by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) as of 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Aparri, Cagayan and Cotabato City, Maguindanao each recorded a peak index of 42ºC.

Wednesday marks the second straight day Aparri, Cagayan recorded a danger level heat index, after also recording a 42ºC peak on Tuesday.

READ: Here’s how to protect yourself from high heat index, according to DOH

Indices ranging from 42ºC and 51ºC are tagged “danger” levels due to increased risks of heat cramps and heat exhaustion, which could then lead to heat stroke.

Heat index is defined as the “measure of the contribution that high humidity makes with abnormally high temperatures in reducing the body’s ability to cool itself.”

Temperatures have begun rising in various parts of the country after the “amihan season” ended last March 23. /das