Taytay, Rizal heat index hits alarming 49.41°C
LUCENA CITY – The local government of Taytay, Rizal, has urged residents to take necessary precautions after the town recorded a dangerous heat index of 49.41 degrees Celsius on Friday.
In an advisory posted on its Facebook page, the Taytay Public Information Office (PIO) said the municipality’s heat index, or “real-feel” temperature, reached 49.41°C as of 11:18 a.m.
READ: Taytay, Atimonan log dangerous heat index levels
The advisory, written in Filipino, warned that such extreme heat could cause heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, and advised the public to exercise extra caution.
Residents were also reminded to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration and other heat-related illnesses.
Peak heat conditions are usually experienced from midday to late afternoon.
On May 28, the municipality registered a scorching heat index of 51.07°C.
The heat index measures the level of discomfort experienced by the human body based on the combined effects of air temperature and humidity.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) classifies heat index levels ranging from 42°C to 51°C under the “danger” category, where prolonged exposure may result in serious heat-related illnesses, including heat stroke.
Heat stroke is considered a medical emergency because body temperature can rapidly rise to dangerous levels, potentially damaging vital organs such as the brain, heart, and kidneys./coa
