Pagasa: Summertime heat can cause fires

Summer has just begun according to Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) following the entry of the easterly winds into the country.

Pagasa Mactan weather bureau Chief Oscar Tabada advised Cebuanos to drink more water to avoid dehydration.

He also advised people to avoid exposure to sunlight from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.  as ultra violet rays is strongest at these hours and increases the risk of skin cancer, eye defects and heat stroke.

If going out is unavoidable, umbrellas should be used as protection against sunlight.

Light colored shirts can help cool people in summer as it reflects light, while dark colored clothing absorbs heat.

In Pagasa’s weather bulletin released yesterday, the temperature in Metro Cebu today until Thursday will range from 24 degree to 34 degree Celsius.

Aside from health concerns, the hotter temperature also increases the risk of fire,  Tabada said.

“Smokers should throw their cigarette butts properly. When thrown into dry leaves, lighted cigarette butts could cause bush or forest fires.”

Summer was expected to set in the last week of February, but the northeast monsoon lingered. /Christine Emily L. Pantaleon , Correspondent