The state weather bureau said seven areas in the Philippines sizzled with a “dangerous” heat index on Saturday, May 20.
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The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said the highest heat index on Saturday was observed in Aparri, Cagayan at 49°C.
PAGASA defines heat index as the “apparent temperature” that humans perceive. Heat indices between 42°C and 51°C are under the “dangerous” threshold as these are likely to cause heat cramps, heat exhaustion, as well as heat stroke with continued sun exposure.
Apart from Cagayan, six other stations logged a dangerous heat index on Saturday. These are recorded in the following areas: Baler, Aurora (42°C); Dipolog, Zamboanga Del Norte (43°C); Iba, Zambales (43°C); Juban, Sorsogon (43°C); Laoag City, Ilocos Norte (42°C); and Tuguegarao City, Cagayan (43°C).
This year's highest heat index so far was recorded in Legazpi, Albay at 50°C.