MANILA, Philippines — PAGASA issued a warning regarding the “dangerous” heat index expected in nearly a dozen areas across the Philippines on Black Saturday.
Continued exposure to these extreme conditions could lead to heat-related illnesses such as cramps, exhaustion, or stroke.
On Friday, the state weather bureau released its most severe heat index forecast yet, indicating scorching temperatures exceeding 44°C in the following locations:
NAIA Pasay City, Metro Manila: 43°C
Iba, Zambales: 42°C
Alabat, Quezon: 42°C
Calapan, Oriental Mindoro: 42°C
San Jose, Occidental Mindoro: 43°C
Puerto Princesa City, Palawan: 44°C
Aborlan, Palawan: 44°C
Roxas City, Capiz: 44°C
Mambusao, Capiz: 42°C
Iloilo City, Iloilo: 43°C
Dumangas, Iloilo: 43°C
“Heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely, with heat stroke becoming probable with prolonged exposure,” warned PAGASA on Good Friday, specifically referring to heat indexes ranging between 42°C to 51°C.
The heat index measures the heat experienced by the human body, often differing from the recorded air temperature. Relative humidity plays a crucial role in determining the heat index.
According to PAGASA’s effect-based classification, indexes reaching 52°C (extreme danger) could indicate an imminent risk of heat stroke.
Extreme danger heat indexes are typically observed in May, as indicated by the State Weather Bureau. PAGASA regularly releases heat index monitoring and forecast information, particularly during the warm months from March to May.
Meteorologists announced earlier in March the conclusion of the “Amihan” or northeast monsoon season, marking the onset of the country’s warm and dry season.
(el Amigo/MNM)