HEAT INDEX WATCH: 13 areas forecast to reach ‘danger’ level on Saturday
MANILA, Philippines — Thirteen areas in the country are expected to reach the “danger” level threshold on Saturday, May 2, according to the state weather bureau.
The heat index, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) defined, measures the level of a person’s discomfort due to the effects of the temperature and air humidity.
Heat indices from 42°C to 51°C are covered under the “danger” level, as heat cramps and heat exhaustion and even heat stroke upon continued exposure to the sun.
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Based on its latest monitoring, Dagupan City, Pangasinan, would soar at the highest heat index for the day at 44°C.
The other areas that would experience dangerous heat indices are as follows:
- Sinait, Ilocos Sur — 43°C
- Laoag City, Ilocos Norte — 43°C
- MMSU, Batac, Ilocos Norte — 43°C
- Bacnotan, La Union — 43°C
- Aparri, Cagayan — 43°C
- Sangley Point, Cavite City, Cavite — 43°C
- Virac (Synop), Catanduanes — 43°C
- Tuguegarao City, Cagayan — 42°C
- ISU Echague, Isabela — 42°C
- TAU Camiling, Tarlac — 42°C
- Catarman, Northern Samar — 42°C
- Cotabato City, Maguindanao del Norte — 42°C
Meanwhile, in Metro Manila, Pagasa predicted a 40°C heat index at the weather stations in Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Pasay City Science Garden in Quezon City for Saturday.
This falls under the “extreme caution” category (33°C to 41°C).
Under the “extreme caution” threshold, heat cramps and heat exhaustion may also occur under the “extreme caution” level, while continued activity in the heat can likewise lead to heatstroke.
To avoid health complications amid the continued hot and humid weather across the country, Pagasa urged the public to limit time outdoors; drink plenty of water; avoid tea, coffee, soft drinks, and alcohol; use an umbrella, hat, and clothing with sleeves; and perform strenuous activities during the cool hours of the day. /mr
