Metro Manila and 23 other regions in the Philippines are bracing for dangerously high heat indices, as forecasted by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA). The heat index, which measures how hot it feels when relative humidity is factored in, is expected to reach extreme levels, posing significant health risks.
In particular, the NAIA station in Pasay City anticipates a heat index of 42 degrees Celsius, while the Science Garden in Quezon City expects 40 degrees Celsius. The most severe conditions are predicted for Dagupan City, Pangasinan, with a heat index forecasted to hit a scorching 46 degrees Celsius.
Other affected areas include Laoag in Ilocos Norte, Aparri and Tuguegarao City in Cagayan, and various locations across Isabela, Pampanga, Nueva Ecija, Aurora, Cavite, Batangas, Palawan, Mindoro, Catanduanes, Masbate, Camarines Sur, Capiz, Iloilo, Northern Samar, and Zamboanga del Sur, all expecting indices around 42 to 43 degrees Celsius.
This hazardous heat wave is due to a ridge of a high-pressure area extending over the eastern sections of Northern and Central Luzon, enhancing the sweltering conditions across the affected regions. Simultaneously, areas like the Davao Region, South Cotabato, and Sarangani are facing cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms due to a low-pressure area trough, raising concerns about possible flash floods or landslides.
PAGASA strongly advises the public to take preventive measures to mitigate heat-related health risks. Recommendations include limiting time spent outdoors, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water, avoiding beverages like tea, coffee, soda, or alcohol, and scheduling strenuous activities during cooler parts of the day. Additionally, wearing protective clothing such as umbrellas, hats, and long sleeves is advised to shield against the sun’s harmful effects.
Residents and visitors in these regions are urged to stay informed about the latest weather updates and to heed the advice of local health and safety officials to prevent heat cramps, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke during this extreme weather event.