30 areas may experience ‘danger’ heat index – PAGASA

MANILA, Philippines — At least 30 areas in the country may experience a “danger” heat index between 42 and 44 degrees Celsius today, amid high temperatures prevailing in the country, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration.

Based on PAGASA’s forecast, a heat index of 44 degrees Celsius may be felt in Dagupan City, Pangasinan, while 43 degrees may be experienced in Aparri, Cagayan; Iba, Zambales; Sangley Point, Cavite City; Cuyo, Palawan; Masbate City, Masbate; Iloilo City, Iloilo and Roxas City, Capiz.

Meanwhile, 42 degrees Celsius may be felt in Metro Manila; Sinait, Ilocos Sur; Laoag City and Batac, Ilocos Norte; Tuguegarao City, Cagayan; Echague, Isabela; Casiguran, Aurora; Subic Bay, Zambales; Camiling, Tarlac; Infanta, Quezon; Coron, Palawan; Daet, Camarines Norte; Legazpi, Albay; Panglao, Bohol; Catbalogan, Western Samar; Tacloban, Leyte; Borongan and Guiuan, Eastern Samar; Maasin, Southern Leyte; Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur and Butuan City, Agusan del Norte.

At a weather briefing, PAGASA weather specialist Grace Castañeda said that the easterlies will continue to affect the country as the low-pressure area (LPA) inside the Philippine area of responsibility dissipated.

“At present, we do not monitor any LPA as the easterlies or warm wind from the Pacific Ocean continues to affect the country. It will bring rains in the eastern portion of Central Luzon,” Castañeda said.

She said humid and hot temperatures will persist for the rest of the country, but warned of thunderstorms in the afternoon and evening due to the easterlies.

On Thursday, the highest heat index was registered in Iba, Zambales and Butuan City at 44 degrees Celsius.

Election day heat

PAGASA said warm and humid conditions will persist on election day on Monday.

In a special weather outlook for the midterm polls, PAGASA weather division chief Juanito Galang said the frontal system and the easterlies will be the dominant weather systems affecting the country.

“Warm and humid conditions will continue across most parts of the country. The public is advised to take precautionary measures against heat-related illnesses such as fatigue, heat cramps and heat exhaustion,” Galang added.

When going to polling precincts, it is recommended to bring water to stay hydrated, use an umbrella for shade, take breaks in covered areas and wear light-colored clothing, he said.