31 areas, including Metro Manila, to hit dangerous heat index on May 19

MANILA, Philippines — State weather bureau PAGASA warned that the heat index in 31 areas across the country is expected to soar to dangerous levels on Sunday.

The heat index, or apparent temperature, considers both humidity and air temperature to show how hot it actually feels.

Based on its latest heat index bulletin, PAGASA announced that several areas will be classified as "dangerous," with temperatures ranging from 42 degrees Celsius to 46°C.

• Alabat, Quezon - 42°C
• Ambulong, Tanauan, Batangas - 44°C
• Bacnotan, La Union - 44°C
• Calapan, Oriental Mindoro - 42°C
• Casiguran, Aurora - 43°C
• Catarman, Northern Samar - 43°C
• Catbalogan, Samar - 44°C
• CLSU Muñoz, Nueva Ecija - 42°C
• Coron, Palawan - 43°C
• Cubi Point, Subic Bay, Olongapo City - 42°C
• Cuyo, Palawan - 43°C
• Daet, Camarines Norte - 42°C
• Dagupan City, Pangasinan - 46°C
• Dipolog, Zamboanga del Norte - 44°C
• Dumangas, Iloilo - 44°C
• Iba, Zambales - 43°C
• Iloilo City, Iloilo - 44°C
• ISU Echague, Isabela - 42°C
• Juban, Sorsogon - 42°C
• Laoag City, Ilocos Norte - 43°C
• Legazpi City, Albay - 42°C
• Masbate City, Masbate - 42°C
• MMSU, Batac, Ilocos Norte - 42°C
• NAIA, Pasay City - 43°C
• Puerto Princesa City, Palawan - 43°C
• Roxas City, Capiz - 45°C
• San Jose, Occidental Mindoro - 43°C
• Sangley Point, Cavite - 44°C
• Tuguegarao City, Cagayan - 42°C
• Virac (Synop), Catanduanes - 43°C
• Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Sur - 44°C

The highest heat index is expected in Dagupan City, Pangasinan, where temperatures may reach 46°C.

In Metro Manila, temperatures are expected to reach danger levels, with the heat index at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Pasay City projected to hit 43°C.

Temperatures between 42°C and 51°C, classified as "dangerous," can cause heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and increase the risk of heat stroke with prolonged sun exposure.

To prevent heat-related illnesses, the weather service recommended to do the following: 

• Reduce outdoor activities
• Stay hydrated
• Avoid specific beverages to prevent heat-related illnesses
• When outdoors, use umbrellas, hats, or wear long sleeves 
• Plan intense activities for cooler parts of the day

PAGASA said that the worst of the record-high temperatures and searing heat might have passed, with many areas likely to experience thunderstorms in the second half of May.

But many areas could still face a high heat index ranging between 45°C and 48°C.

State meteorologists predict that rain will become more frequent as the country transitions into the wet season. 

La Niña, which is associated with above normal rainfall conditions, is possible during the June-July-August period.