13 areas in danger zone due to high heat index

Thirteen areas have been classified as in danger due to the forecast heat index on Monday, data from PAGASA showed.

Based on PAGASA's two-day forecast, Dagupan City in Pangasinan will experience the highest heat index today at 45 degrees Celsius.

Below are the areas in danger:

1. NAIA Pasay City, Metro Manila: 42ºC
2. Laoag City, Ilocos Norte: 42ºC
3. Dagupan City, Pangasinan: 45ºC
4. Aparri, Cagayan: 43ºC
5. Tuguegarao City, Cagayan: 42ºC
6. ISU Echague, Isabela: 42ºC
7. Clark Airport (DMIA), Pampanga: 42ºC
8. Puerto Princesa City, Palawan: 44ºC
9. Aborlan, Palawan: 42ºC
10. Virac (Synop), Catanduanes: 42ºC
11. Masbate City, Masbate: 42ºC
12. Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Sur: 42ºC
13. Cotabato City, Maguindanao: 42ºC

PAGASA classifies as in danger those areas with heat index from 42 to 51 degrees Celsius.

Meanwhile, areas with heat index of 27 to 32 degrees Celsius are under "Caution"; 33 to 41 degrees Celsius under "Extreme Caution"; and 52 degrees Celsius and above under "Extreme Danger".

Heat index is the measure of the temperature that a person feels in contrast to the actual air temperature.

PAGASA advises the public to prevent heat-related illnesses by doing the following:

• Limit the time spent outdoors
• Drink plenty of water
• Avoid tea, coffee, soda, and liquor
• Wear umbrellas, hats, and sleeved clothing outdoors
• Schedule heavy-duty activities for the beginning or end of the day when it's cooler.

—KG, GMA Integrated News