PAGASA: Hot, humid election day

MANILA, Philippines — Election day on Monday is forecast to be hot and humid with neither low-pressure area nor typhoon expected to enter the Philippine area of responsibility in the next five days.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) is advising those trooping to polling precincts on May 9 to protect themselves from the summer heat and its possible effects on the human body.

In an extended weather advisory yesterday, the state weather bureau said voters should bring umbrellas and drinking water so as not to suffer from possible heat stroke or dehydration.

Metro Manila’s temperature for the next three days, including Monday, is forecast to range from 24 to 34 degrees Celsius with the hottest times of the day expected from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

PAGASA has, however, noted that actual temperatures are different from the heat index or the combined effect felt by the human body from the actual temperature and the accompanying humidity.

Last Thursday, the highest heat index was recorded again in Dagupan City, Pangasinan at 51 degrees Celsius. This is followed by Sangley Point in Cavite, which sizzled at 49 degrees.

Catarman, Northern Samar was also hot at 45 degrees followed by Juban, Sorsogon and the Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Oriental that both registered 44 degrees.

PAGASA said a heat index of 42 degrees Celsius was also recorded in Aparri, Cagayan and Masbate City in the province of Masbate.

Metro Manila’s temperatures were lower but still feverish, with the Ninoy Aquino International Airport area in Pasay City reaching a heat index of 40 degrees.

PAGASA said Port Area in Manila sizzled at 38 degrees Celsius while the Quezon City Science Garden in Quezon City had a heat index of 37 degrees.

It added that the frontal system affecting extreme Northern Luzon and the easterlies, or the warm and humid air from the Pacific Ocean, affecting the rest of the country will bring clear weather for the next five days.

However, it cautioned that there are still chances of isolated rainshowers and thunderstorms because of the two weather systems mostly in the afternoon or evening.