Heat index reaches ‘dangerous’ levels

“Dangerous” levels of heat index with maximum temperature of 44.5 degrees Celsius (°C) were recorded in some provinces across the country on Thursday, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said.

In a data from PAGASA issued Friday, the hottest temperature in the country on Thursday was recorded in Dagupan City with maximum heat index of 44.5 °C, slightly lower from the 48.2°C on Wednesday.

Heat index in the city is expected to further decrease to 37.2°C on Friday.

According to PAGASA, heat index refers to the actual feel of temperature, opposed to the temperature measured by a thermometer.

The high air temperatures and high relative humidity are the factors considered in heat index which give high apparent temperatures or indices.

The state weather bureau considered heat indices of 41°C to 54°C as “dangerous” – meaning heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely, and a heat stroke is probable with continued activity.”

Apart from Dagupan City, a dangerous heat index of 41.4°C was recorded over Cuyo, Palawan and Sangley Point, Cavite also on Thursday, while a heat index of 41°C was recorded at Cotabato, Maguindanao.

PAGASA weather specialist Gener Quitlong said the public will continue to experience warmer days as easterlies, or the warm winds coming from the Pacific Ocean still affect the whole country on Friday.

Based on the weather update of PAGASA, partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms might prevail over Mindanao, Eastern Visayas, Bicol Region, Aurora, and Quezon due to easterlies.

The agency advised residents on possible flash floods during severe thunderstorms.

Meanwhile, Metro Manila and the rest of the country will experience partly cloudy skies also due to easterlies.