Dangerous heat index to be felt in 7 areas —PAGASA

People in seven areas across the country may have to bear a dangerous level of heat index on Thursday, state weather bureau PAGASA said. 

As of 5 p.m. on Wednesday, PAGASA’s forecast showed that the following areas may have a heat index ranging from 42 to 51 degrees Celsius on April 4:

Dagupan City, Pangasinan- 42°C

Sangley Point, Cavite- 42°C

Puerto Princesa City, Palawan- 42°C 

Central Bicol State University of Agriculture in Pili, Camarines Sur- 42°C

Dumangas, Iloilo- 42°C

Catarman, Northern Samar- 43°C

Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Sur- 42°C

Heat index is the measure of the temperature that a person feels, which is different from the actual air temperature. It is computed by factoring in the humidity as well as the air temperature.

Several schools and local governments have suspended classes or suspended face-to-face classes for Thursday, April 4, 2024, due to heat conditions.

In areas where a dangerous heat index is monitored, PAGASA said heat cramps and heat exhaustion are possible. People may also suffer from heat stroke with continued exposure to the sun. 

The Department of Health (DOH) has also warned against heat-related illnesses that become more prevalent with extreme temperatures. 

The public has been advised to take preventive measures against these illnesses, including drinking lots of water, and avoiding iced tea, soda, coffee, or alcoholic drinks.

People should also limit their time spent outdoors between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., use protection against sunburn such as hats, umbrellas, and sunblock, and wear loose fitting and lightweight clothing. —Giselle Ombay/ VAL, GMA Integrated News