Dangerous heat index forecast for 6 areas on April 12, 2024
Six areas in the country will be under a high heat index on Friday, April 12, state weather bureau PAGASA said on Thursday afternoon.
According to PAGASA's 5 p.m. forecast, the following areas were expected to experience heat indexes ranging from 42°C to 44°C on Friday:
· Dagupan City, Pangasinan – 44°C
· Bacnotan, La Union – 43°C
· Puerto Princesa City, Palawan – 42°C
· Aborlan, Palawan – 42°C
· Catarman, Northern Samar – 42°C
· Cotabato City – 42°C
The lowest heat index forecast is expected in Baguio City, Benguet, and BSU, La Trinidad, Benguet, at 25°C.
PAGASA defines heat index as 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 and the air temperature.
In areas experiencing a ''danger'' level heat index, which is from 42°C to 51°C, heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely, according to PAGASA. Heat stroke is also possible with continued exposure.
Symptoms of heat-related illnesses include sweating heavily, exhaustion or fatigue, dizziness or lightheadedness, blacking out or feeling dizzy when standing, weak but fast pulses, a feeling of nausea, and vomiting.
Earlier, PAGASA stated that the heat index in the country would reach its peak in April and May. — Jiselle Anne Casucian/VBL, GMA Integrated News