Dangerous heat index expected in 6 areas

Six areas in the country may experience a dangerous level of heat index on Friday, according to state weather bureau PAGASA.

In its 5 p.m. forecast on Thursday, PAGASA said these areas are expected to have the highest heat index of up to 43 degrees Celsius. 

• Tuguegarao City, Cagayan - 43 °C
• San Jose, Occidental Mindoro - 42 °C
• Puerto Princesa City, Palawan - 42 °C
• Aborlan, Palawan - 43 °C
• Dumangas, Iloilo - 42 °C
• Catarman, Northern Samar - 42 °C

Heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely in areas experiencing a danger level heat index, which is from 42 to 51°C. Heat stroke is also possible with continued exposure, PAGASA said. 

According to PAGASA, 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.

PAGASA advised the public to watch out for symptoms of heat-related illnesses:

• sweating heavily
• exhaustion or fatigue
• dizziness or lightheadedness
• blacking out or feeling dizzy when standing
• weak but fast pulses
• feeling of nausea
• vomiting

Due to the high heat index, face-to-face classes on Friday have been suspended in several areas across the country.

Earlier, PAGASA weather specialist Obet Badrina warned that the heat index in the country may get worse this April.

“Lalo na ngayong buwan nga ng Abril na inaasahan natin na mas lalo pang tiitindi 'yung init na nararamdaman sa malaking bahagi ng ating bansa,” he said.

(Especially this month of April, we expect that the heat in a large part of our country will intensify even more.)

To prevent heat-related illnesses, PAGASA encouraged the public to limit their time spent outdoors, drink plenty of water, and avoid tea, coffee, soda, as well as liquor.

People should also use umbrellas, hats, and sleeved clothing outdoors and schedule their heavy-duty activities for the beginning or end of the day when it is cooler.

Other teaching strategies, such as modular and online instruction, have been employed to minimize disruption to students' education. —Joviland Rita/ VAL, GMA Integrated News