Dangerous heat index expected in 18 areas on May 8

The heat index in 18 areas nationwide may reach dangerous levels on Wednesday, the state weather bureau PAGASA said in its forecast.

The following areas are expected to feel up to 45°C heat index on May 8:

45°C

—Virac (Synop), Catanduanes
—Roxas City, Capiz
—Guiuan, Eastern Samar

44°C
—Aborlan, Palawan
—Cuyo, Palawan

43°C
—Dagupan City, Pangasinan
—Bacnotan, La Union
—Alabat, Quezon
—San Jose, Occidental Mindoro
—Masbate City, Masbate
—Iloilo City, Iloilo
—Dumangas, Iloilo
—Zamboanga City, Zamboanga Del Sur

42°C
—CLSU Muñoz, Nueva Ecija
—Legazpi City, Albay
—CBSUA-Pili, Camarines Sur
—Cotabato City, Maguindanao
—Puerto Princesa City, Palawan

Metro Manila residents were expected to experience a heat index of 41°C on Wednesday, which is at the "extreme caution" level. The nation's capital on Tuesday had a heat index of 40°C.

According to PAGASA's scale, heat index temperatures from 41°C to 54°C are dangerous and could possibly lead to heat stroke.

On Tuesday, there were more areas (20) that experienced dangerous heat index levels, with the highest recorded in Dagupan City, Pangasinan at 47°C.

Heat index refers to the measure of the temperature that the body feels, which is different from the actual air temperature. It is computed by factoring in the humidity and the air temperature.

PAGASA warned that dangerous levels of heat index may likely lead to heat cramps and heat exhaustion. Heat stroke is also probable with continued exposure to heat.

The Department of Health (DOH) earlier reported 77 cases of heat-related illnesses from January 1 to April 29. Of this number, 87% or 67 of these cases were aged 12 to 21 years old.

The DOH advised the public to limit time outdoors and to drink plenty of water instead of other drinks such as tea, coffee, soda, and liquor. Strenuous activities may be scheduled at the beginning or end of the day, when it is cooler.

PAGASA declared on March 22 the start of the warm and dry season. The El Niño phenomenon started in July last year. — VDV, GMA Integrated News