Heat index likely to peak in May – PAGASA

MANILA, Philippines —  The country may face even hotter days ahead, with the heat index expected to peak by May, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

The warning follows a sweltering 47 degrees Celsius heat index recorded in San Ildefonso, Bulacan over the weekend – the highest so far this year.

PAGASA weather specialist Veronica Torres said that both temperature and humidity levels are projected to rise further in the coming weeks.

“We do not rule out the possibility that the temperatures and heat index will increase further as the heat index usually peaks around first week of May, although there are also instances when we recorded the highest temperatures in April,” Torres said.

Aside from San Ildefonso, at least 15 other locations experienced “danger-level” heat indices ranging from 42 to 45 degrees Celsius.

Aparri in Cagayan registered the highest at 45 degrees Celsius, while Sangley Point in Cavite City, Puerto Princesa in Palawan and Daet in Camarines Norte recorded 44 degrees Celsius.

Dagupan City in Pangasinan; Tuguegarao City in Cagayan; Ambulong in Tanauan, Batangas; Dumangas in Iloilo and Zamboanga City registered 43 degrees.

Meanwhile, Casiguran in Aurora; Subic Bay in Olongapo City; Masbate City; La Carlota in Negros Occidental and Metro Manila reported heat indices of 42 degrees Celsius.

Authorities warn that heat cramps and exhaustion are likely under such conditions, while heat stroke is probable with prolonged exposure.

Amid the heat, PAGASA weather specialist Rhea Torres noted that Mindanao may see rainfall in the coming days due to the intertropical convergence zone, while the rest of the country will continue to experience hot and humid weather brought by the easterlies from the Pacific Ocean.

The public is advised to constantly monitor weather updates and heat advisories to prevent health risks related to extreme heat.