Photo pixabay
SWELTERING heat has intensified across the country, with the state weather bureau reporting that at least 13 locations recorded heat indices classified under the “danger” level on Sunday, April 26.
Temperatures felt by the human body climbed as high as 45°C in some areas, while PAGASA forecasts warn that ten more places will experience the same hazardous conditions on Monday.
The development highlights the ongoing extreme weather conditions that continue to affect various regions, prompting authorities to remind the public to take necessary precautions to safeguard their health and safety.
Based on the bureau’s 5:00 p.m. monitoring, the highest heat index reading for the day was logged at 45°C in both Dumangas, Iloilo and Guiuan, Eastern Samar.
Other areas that also fell within the danger category include Sangley Point in Cavite City and Cuyo, Palawan, both registering 44°C; San Ildefonso in Bulacan, San Jose in Occidental Mindoro, Iloilo City, and La Granja in La Carlota City, Negros Occidental, all at 43°C; and Baler and Casiguran in Aurora, Iba in Zambales, Puerto Princesa City, Roxas City, and Zamboanga City, each recording 42°C. Meanwhile, in the National Capital Region, heat indices reached 41°C at NAIA in Pasay City and 40°C at Science Garden in Quezon City, which are categorized under “extreme caution.”
Under PAGASA’s official classification system, a heat index ranging from 42°C to 51°C is considered dangerous, as conditions in this range make heat cramps and heat exhaustion highly probable. When exposure to such heat is prolonged or when individuals engage in heavy physical activity, the risk escalates further, potentially leading to heat stroke—a serious medical condition that can be life-threatening if not addressed immediately. It is also important to note that these readings are taken in shaded areas; direct exposure to sunlight can cause the perceived temperature to rise by as much as 9°C, making the heat feel even more intense and harmful to the body.
The heat index refers to the temperature as it is felt by humans, calculated by combining the actual air temperature and the level of relative humidity.
High humidity prevents sweat from evaporating quickly from the skin, which is the body’s natural way of cooling down, causing individuals to feel much warmer than what the thermometer shows. To help the public understand risks better, the bureau has set clear guidelines: levels between 27°C and 32°C call for caution as fatigue may set in; 33°C to 41°C requires extreme caution due to possible heat-related illnesses; while readings of 52°C and above are labeled “extreme danger,” where heat stroke is almost certain and immediate medical attention is critical.
In light of these conditions, PAGASA has issued advisories urging everyone to limit outdoor activities, especially between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. when the heat is most intense. People are advised to drink plenty of water even if they do not feel thirsty, wear light and breathable clothing, and avoid strenuous work or exercise during peak hours. The bureau also encourages the public to regularly check daily updates and forecasts to stay informed and prepared as hot weather conditions are expected to persist in the coming days.
