PAGASA: Danger heat index in 13 areas today

MANILA, Philippines — At least 13 areas in the Philippines could experience a “danger” heat index of 44 degrees Celsius today amid the continued effects of El Niño and the dry season, according to the state weather bureau.

Dagupan City, Pangasinan and Puerto Princesa City, Palawan will experience extreme heat on Tuesday, based on the forecast of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

The heat index in Dagupan City was forecast at 45 degrees Celsius yesterday.

Other areas with danger heat index include Aborlan, Palawan at 43 degrees Celsius; Sinat, Ilocos Sur; Laoag City, Ilocos Norte; Aparri and Tuguegarao City, Cagayan; Clark Airport, Pampanga; Muñoz, Nueva Ecija; Virac, Catanduanes; Zamboanga City and General Santos City at 42 degrees Celsius.

On Sunday, Dagupan City’s heat index reached 46 degrees Celsius.

Meanwhile, the heat index in Aparri, Puerto Princesa reached 44 degrees Celsius; Pili, Camarines Sur, 43 degrees Celsius; Laoag City; Tuguegarao City; Echague, Isabela; Muñoz; Tanauan, Batangas; Aborlan; Iloilo City and Dumangas, Iloilo; Tacloban City, Leyte; Zamboanga City and Cotabato City, 42 degrees Celsius.

Metro Manila’s heat index reached 41 degrees on Sunday.

PAGASA Impact Assessment and Applications Section of the Climatology and Agrometeorology division chief Marcelino Villafuerte II has said that danger and extreme danger heat indexes are expected in April and May amid the official declaration of the summer season or warm and dry season on March 21.

“Extreme danger” heat index ranges between 52 degrees Celsius and up, PAGASA noted.

“Danger” level heat index could cause heat cramps and exhaustion and heat stroke is probable with continued exposure.

Under “extreme danger,” heat stroke is imminent, the agency said.

PAGASA advised the public to limit time spent outdoors, drink lots of water, avoid tea, coffee, soda and liquor and use an umbrella, hats and sleeved clothing when outdoors.