MANILA – The state weather bureau on Thursday warned of dangerous heat index levels in at least 28 areas across the country, as the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ) continues to bring rain and thunderstorms to parts of Mindanao.

According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), Tuguegarao City in Cagayan is expected to record the highest heat index at a sweltering 45°C, based on its 5 a.m. forecast bulletin.

The heat index, which combines air temperature and humidity to reflect what humans actually feel, is expected to reach “danger” levels—ranging from 42°C to 51°C—in multiple areas, putting residents at risk of heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke with prolonged exposure.

Below are the areas forecast to experience a dangerous heat index:

44°C: Dagupan City (Pangasinan), Echague (Isabela), Baler and Casiguran (Aurora), Iba (Zambales), Sangley Point (Cavite)

43°C: Bacnotan (La Union), Clark Airport (Pampanga), Muñoz (Nueva Ecija), San Ildefonso (Bulacan), Camiling and Hacienda Luisita (Tarlac), Ambulong (Batangas), Alabat (Quezon), San Jose and Puerto Princesa City (Occidental Mindoro and Palawan), Pili (Camarines Sur), Dumangas (Iloilo), Panglao International Airport

42°C: Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Pasay), Aparri (Cagayan), Subic Bay (Olongapo City), Coron and Cuyo (Palawan), Legazpi City (Albay), Masbate City (Masbate), Roxas City (Capiz)

Meanwhile, PAGASA said the ITCZ will continue to bring scattered rain showers and thunderstorms over the Zamboanga Peninsula, Soccsksargen, Davao Occidental, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi.

Residents in affected areas are advised to remain alert for potential flash floods or landslides, especially during periods of moderate to heavy rainfall.

The rest of Mindanao may still experience isolated thunderstorms, while the rest of the country will see similar conditions due to prevailing easterlies.

No tropical cyclone or low-pressure area was detected as of 2 a.m., and PAGASA maintains there is only a slim chance of cyclone formation for the remainder of April.

Light to moderate winds with slight to moderate sea conditions are expected to prevail across the Philippine archipelago.

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