The heat index in 37 areas across the Philippines is forecasted to reach 42 to 45 degrees Celsius on Friday, May 17, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa). The highest temperatures, soaring up to 45 degrees Celsius, are anticipated in Dagupan City (Pangasinan), Sangley Point (Cavite), San Jose (Occidental Mindoro), and Zamboanga City (Zamboanga del Sur).
Several other regions are expected to experience slightly lower but still dangerously high heat indices. Bacnotan (La Union), Roxas City (Capiz), Iloilo City (Iloilo), Dumangas (Iloilo), and Dipolog (Zamboanga del Norte) are projected to hit 44 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, Naia Pasay City (Metro Manila), Sinait (Ilocos Sur), ISU Echague (Isabela), Clark Airport (DMIA, Pampanga), Baler (Radar, Aurora), Puerto Princesa (Palawan), Cuyo (Palawan), Virac (Synop, Catanduanes), Guiuan (Eastern Samar), and Cotabato City (Maguindanao) may see temperatures reach 43 degrees Celsius.
In addition, the heat index is expected to peak at 42 degrees Celsius in Science Garden (Quezon City, Metro Manila), Laoag City (Ilocos Norte), MMSU Batac (Ilocos Norte), Aparri (Cagayan), Tuguegarao City (Cagayan), Iba (Zambales), CLSU Muñoz (Nueva Ecija), Casiguran (Aurora), Ambulong Tanauan (Batangas), Infanta (Quezon), Alabat (Quezon), Daet (Camarines Norte), Masbate City (Masbate), CBSUA-Pili (Camarines Sur), Catarman (Northern Samar), Catbalogan (Samar), Davao City (Davao del Sur), and Butuan City (Agusan del Norte).
The heat index, as explained by Pagasa, measures the effect of high humidity combined with high temperatures on the body’s ability to cool itself. When the heat index ranges from 42 to 51 degrees Celsius, it falls under the “danger category,” posing significant risks for heat-related illnesses such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
To mitigate these risks, the Department of Health advises the public to stay well-hydrated, avoid beverages like sodas, iced tea, coffee, and alcohol, wear loose and light clothing, limit outdoor activities, and use sun protection like hats, umbrellas, and sunscreen.
Conversely, Baguio City and La Trinidad in Benguet will experience the lowest heat indices, peaking at 25 degrees Celsius and 27 degrees Celsius, respectively, providing a much-needed respite from the sweltering heat for those in higher elevations.
As temperatures soar, residents in the affected areas must take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the extreme heat and prevent heat-related health issues.