The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has warned the public of possible high heat index during the Holy Week.

PAGASA said since Saturday, April 12, 2025, the heat index in General Santos City has not dropped below 40 degrees Celsius. The next day, the heat index reached 42 degrees Celsius, which is classified as danger level.

The state weather bureau added that the high heat index is expected to persist until Easter Sunday.

“Yes, pwede gihapon na siya moabot hangtod weekend, hangtod Sunday ang atoang kainit kay nahuman na man gud  ang atoang La Niña and then ang atoang amihan is wala na,” PAGASA-General Santos City Chief, Binrio Biñan, said.

PAGASA advised those participating in penitential and other Holy Week activities to bring protection from the intense heat, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, and stay hydrated.

“Magdala lang ta og pandong ug kaning tubig for hydration, ug dili ta palabi og babad sa adlaw kay kana nga adlawa, pwede mosaka ang atong heat index into danger level,” Biñan added.

The heat index measures how hot it actually feels to the human body, factoring in both humidity and actual air temperature.