Three Philippine areas sizzled with a "dangerous" heat index on Saturday, March 25, said the state weather bureau. This comes less than a week after the country marked the onset of the warm and dry season.
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3 PH areas sizzle with 'dangerous' heat index on Saturday
Mar 25, 2023 11:16 AM
At a glance
The state weather bureau on Saturday afternoon, March 25, bared that the heat index in three Philippine areas has climbed to the “dangerous” level.
Heat index, also called “human discomfort index,” pertains to the apparent temperature that humans perceive.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said heat indices between 42 to 51°C are “dangerous” as it could cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion. Direct and continued exposure to the sun with this prevailing heat index could also trigger heat stroke.
Maasin, Southern Leyte logged a sizzling 43°C heat index on Saturday. It was followed by Masbate City and Davao City, Davao Del Sur which logged a 42°C heat index respectively.
The so far highest heat index in 2023 was recorded in Butuan City, Agusan Del Norte at 47°C on Friday, March 24. Meanwhile, the onset of the warm and dry season in the country was announced on Tuesday, March 21.
To avoid heat-related illnesses, PAGASA strongly urged the public to “limit the time spent outdoors, drink plenty of water, and avoid tea, coffee, soda, and liquor.” Warning signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses include sweating heavily, exhaustion, dizziness, and vomiting.