Thirty-eight areas across the Philippines are projected to reach “danger” level heat indices ranging from 42°C to 46°C on Sunday, as relentless hot and humid weather continues to blanket the country, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
Dipolog City is anticipated to experience the highest temperature, with the heat index likely peaking at 46°C.
Meanwhile, a scorching 45°C heat index is forecast for Cavite City; Coron and Cuyo in Palawan; and Guiuan in Eastern Samar.
Other areas expected to endure intense, sweltering heat include:
- 44°C: Pasay City; Borongan City; Dumangas, Iloilo; Pili, Camarines Sur; Roxas City; San Jose, Occidental Mindoro; Tarlac City; and Virac, Catanduanes.
- 43°C: Alabat, Quezon; Dagupan City; Iba, Zambales; Los Baños, Laguna; Science City of Muñoz; and Tanauan City.
- 42°C: Quezon City.
PAGASA defines the “danger” category as apparent temperatures between 42°C to 51°C. The heat index measures how hot it actually feels to the human body by factoring environmental humidity into the actual air temperature.
The weather bureau warned that prolonged exposure to these danger-level conditions makes heat cramps and heat exhaustion highly likely.
To mitigate these health risks, the Department of Health (DOH) advises the public to stay hydrated by drinking eight to 12 glasses of water daily and to strictly avoid caffeinated or alcoholic drinks. Health officials also recommend limiting outdoor activities between the peak hours of 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, wearing loose and lightweight clothing, and taking frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned spaces.