PAGASA records highest heat index in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro

San Jose town in Occidental Mindoro on Wednesday morning recorded the highest heat index with 51 degrees Celsius, PAGASA reported.

In Ambulong, Tanauan City the heat index was 47°C by in the early Wednesday afternoon while Sangley point in Cavite City it was 45°C in the morning.

A temperature of 43°C was recorded in Zamboanga in the afternoon, while in the cities of Davao, Legazpi and at the Science Garden station in Quezon City the heat index was at 42°C.

With the high temperatures recorded in Wednesday, the weather bureau issued a warning on the harm that can be caused by 41 - 54°C heat index as this can cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion that can result to heat stroke during continuous physical activity.

PAGASA, on its website, explains that heat index are human discomfort index that gives the "apparent" temperature or what human perceive or feel as the temperature affecting their body.

High air temperatures and high relative humidity will give high apparent temperatures or indices. Full exposure to sunshine can increase the heat index by 8°C.

These are the tips posted by PAGASA:

1. Stay indoors as much as possible, if air conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine
2. Wear lightweight and light colored clothing. Light colors will reflect the sun's energy.
3. Drink plenty of water regularly. The body needs water to keep cool.
4. Water is the safest liquid to drink during heat emergencies. Avoid drinking liquor because it dehydrates the body.
5. Eat small meals however eat more often. Avoid eating foods of high in protein which can increase metabolic heat.

-- BAP, GMA News