On May 18, 38 areas across the Philippines are expected to endure dangerously high heat levels, the state weather bureau PAGASA warned. The heat index, a measure combining air temperature and humidity to reflect perceived temperature, is forecasted to reach up to 45°C in certain regions, posing severe health risks.
The highest heat index of 45°C is anticipated in Dagupan City (Pangasinan), Aparri (Cagayan), Dumangas (Iloilo), and Zamboanga City (Zamboanga del Sur). A slightly lower, but still critical, heat index of 44°C is expected in Laoag City (Ilocos Norte), San Jose (Occidental Mindoro), Cuyo (Palawan), Roxas City (Capiz), Iloilo City (Iloilo), Catarman (Northern Samar), Dipolog (Zamboanga del Norte), and Butuan City (Agusan del Norte).
Areas projected to experience a 43°C heat index include NAIA (Pasay City), Bacnotan (La Union), Iba (Zambales), CLSU Muñoz (Nueva Ecija), Baler (Radar, Aurora), Ambulong (Tanauan, Batangas), Alabat (Quezon), Puerto Princesa City (Palawan), and Catbalogan (Samar). Meanwhile, a 42°C heat index is expected in several other locations, including Tuguegarao City (Cagayan), ISU Echague (Isabela), Casiguran (Aurora), Cubi Pt. (Subic Bay, Olongapo City), Sangley Point (Cavite), Infanta (Quezon), Mulanay (Quezon), Aborlan (Palawan), Daet (Camarines Norte), Legazpi City (Albay), Masbate City (Masbate), Juban (Sorsogon), CBSUA-Pili (Camarines Sur), Guiuan (Eastern Samar), CMU Agromet (Musuan, Bukidnon), Davao City (Davao del Sur), and Cotabato City (Maguindanao).
In contrast, cooler temperatures are forecasted for Baguio City and La Trinidad in Benguet, with heat indexes of 25°C and 26°C respectively.
PAGASA emphasized the potential health hazards associated with heat indexes ranging from 42°C to 51°C. These conditions can lead to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and with prolonged exposure, heat stroke. The public is urged to take preventive measures, such as limiting outdoor activities and staying hydrated. The Department of Health advises avoiding dehydrating beverages like tea, coffee, soda, and liquor and recommends scheduling strenuous activities during the cooler parts of the day, either early morning or late evening.
The onset of these extreme heat conditions coincides with the dry season’s official start on March 22, as declared by PAGASA. This period has also been influenced by the El Niño phenomenon, contributing to the heightened temperatures experienced across the nation. The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the adverse effects of the scorching heat.