PAGASA: Dangerous heat index seen in 11 areas on Black Saturday

A dangerous level of heat index is expected in at least 11 areas of the country on Black Saturday, including the southern part of Metro Manila.  

In its two-day heat index forecast based on computed data from March 25 to March 29, state weather bureau PAGASA said the heat index or the so-called “init factor” might reach 43 degrees Celsius and 42 degrees Celsius on March 30 and 31, respectively, in the Ninoy Aquino International Airport area in Pasay City.

Heat index refers to the apparent heat felt by a person when high air temperatures are combined with humidity or “alinsangan.”

In its effect-based classification chart, PAGASA considers a heat index reaching 42 degrees Celsius to 51 degrees Celsius as "dangerous."

Under a dangerous level heat index, heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely while heat stroke is probable with continued exposure.

At the Science Garden in Quezon City, on the other hand, the heat index level is seen to reach 39 degrees Celsius and 38 degrees Celsius on Black Saturday and Easter Sunday, respectively.

Other parts of the country expected to record dangerous levels of heat index are:

• Iba, Zambales at 42°C
• Alabat, Quezon at 44°C
• Calapan, Oriental Mindoro at 42°C
• San Jose, Occidental Mindoro at 43°C
• Puerto Princesa City, Palawan at 44°C
• Roxas City, Capiz at 44°C
• Mambusao, Capiz at 42°C
• Iloilo City at 43°C
• Dumangas, Iloilo at 43°C
• La Granja, La Carlota, Negros Occidental at 43°C

To prevent heat-related illnesses, PAGASA advised the public to limit time spent outdoors; drink plenty of water; avoid tea, coffee, soda, and liquor; wear umbrella, hats, and sleeved clothing outdoors; and schedule heavy-duty activities for the beginning or end of the day when it’s cooler. —Ted Cordero/ VAL, GMA Integrated News