Rising heat index in parts of Visayas to persist into early May
INQUIRER FILES
ILOILO CITY, Philippines — High heat index levels are expected to continue across much of the Philippines through the first days of May, with several areas in the Visayas still experiencing conditions classified as “danger,” according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa).
Based on Pagasa’s latest data as of 5 p.m. on April 30, heat indices in multiple monitoring stations nationwide have been hovering between 33°C and 44°C, falling under the “extreme caution” to “danger” categories. Forecasts for May 1 and May 2 show little relief, with similar levels expected to persist.
In Western Visayas, Iloilo City recorded one of the highest heat indices at 44°C on April 30, placing it under the “danger” level, which poses a high risk of heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and possible heat stroke with prolonged exposure. The city is projected to experience a slightly lower but still hazardous 42°C heat index on both May 1 and May 2.
Other areas in the region also posted elevated readings. Dumangas, Iloilo reached 44°C, while Roxas City in Capiz peaked at 42°C earlier in the week before easing slightly. Bacolod-area stations, including La Granja in La Carlota City, registered heat indices up to 43°C in recent days, though forecasts indicate a slight dip to around 40°C to 41°C.
READ: 11 areas to reach ‘danger’ level heat indices on Labor Day
Across the Visayas, several stations in Eastern Visayas likewise recorded high heat indices, with Guiuan, Eastern Samar reaching as high as 45°C earlier in the monitoring period. While projections suggest a marginal decrease, most areas remain within the “extreme caution” range.
PAGASA classifies heat index levels of 27°C to 32°C as “caution,” 33°C to 41°C as “extreme caution,” 42°C to 51°C as “danger,” and 52°C and above as “extreme danger.”
Despite slight day-to-day fluctuations, the overall pattern indicates sustained heat stress conditions, particularly in urban and low-lying coastal areas where humidity intensifies the “feels-like” temperature.
The weather bureau has repeatedly advised the public to limit outdoor activities during peak hours, stay hydrated, and watch for symptoms of heat-related illnesses, especially among vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
Local governments in parts of Western Visayas have already begun implementing mitigation measures, including adjusted class schedules, installation of cooling stations, and public advisories, in response to the continuing high heat index.
PAGASA said it will continue to monitor conditions and issue updates as necessary. /cb
