THE state weather bureau Pagasa said on Monday that four areas are expected to experience a “danger” level of heat index.
In its latest forecast, Pagasa identified the following areas may feel the highest heat index in the country:
Aparri, Cagayan: 43 degrees Celsius
CBSUA in Pili, Camarines Sur: 42°C
Catarman, Northern Samar: 43°C
Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Sur: 42°C
The Pagasa warned the public of heat cramps and heat exhaustion in areas experiencing a danger level heat index, which is from 42 to 51°C. Heat stroke is also possible with continued exposure.
Heat index is the measure of the temperature that a person feels which is different from the actual air temperature. It is computed by factoring in the humidity as well as the air temperature.
Due to this, Pagasa advised the public to watch out for symptoms of heat-related illnesses:
sweating heavily;
exhaustion or fatigue;
dizziness or lightheadedness;
blacking out or feeling dizzy when standing;
weak but fast pulse;
feeling of nausea; and
vomiting.
Interviewed on Unang Balita, PAGASA’s weather specialist Obet Badrina warned that the heat index in the country may get worse this April.
“Lalo na ngayong buwan nga ng Abril na inaasahan natin na mas lalo pang tiitindi ‘yung init na nararamdaman sa malaking bahagi ng ating bansa,” he said.
