MANILA – While most parts of the country will experience isolated rain showers brought by the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ) and easterlies, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has raised alarms over dangerous heat levels expected in 25 areas.

In its 5 a.m. bulletin on Wednesday (23 Apr 2025), PAGASA reported that the ITCZ affecting southern Mindanao will cause scattered rain showers and thunderstorms across Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Davao Oriental, Davao Occidental, Sarangani, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi.

Moderate to heavy rainfall in these areas may lead to flash floods or landslides, PAGASA warned.

Meanwhile, the rest of Mindanao, as well as Luzon and the Visayas, can expect isolated rain showers or thunderstorms due to the easterlies. Severe thunderstorms could also result in flash floods or landslides in some areas.

Despite these intermittent rains, PAGASA highlighted the dangerous heat levels across many parts of the country. The peak heat index is expected to hit 45°C in Dagupan City, Pangasinan, posing serious health risks.

The following locations are also forecast to experience danger-level heat index values (42°C–44°C):

Ilocos Region: Sinait (42°C), Laoag City (43°C), Batac (42°C), Bacnotan (43°C)

Cagayan Valley: Calayan (42°C), Aparri (44°C), Tuguegarao City (44°C), Echague (43°C)

Central Luzon: Iba, Zambales (42°C), Clark Airport (42°C), Muñoz (42°C), Subic Bay (42°C), San Ildefonso (42°C), Camiling (43°C)

Calabarzon: Tayabas City (43°C), Ambulong in Tanauan (42°C)

Mimaropa: San Jose (42°C), Puerto Princesa City (42°C), Cuyo (42°C)

Bicol Region: Legazpi City (42°C), Pili (43°C)

Western Visayas: Dumangas, Iloilo (42°C)

Central Luzon and Aurora: Baler (43°C), Casiguran (43°C)

A heat index of 42°C to 51°C is categorized as danger level, where people are likely to suffer from heat cramps and heat exhaustion. Prolonged exposure could also lead to heatstroke.

As of 2 a.m., PAGASA reported no low-pressure area monitored for potential tropical cyclone development. Light to moderate winds and slight to moderate sea conditions are expected across the country.

ia/mnm