The heat index soared to “danger” levels in 28 different locations across the country on Sunday, June 16, based on the data from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
PAGASA said a heat index ranging from 42 degrees Celsius (°C) to 51°C is considered dangerous due to its increased potential to cause heat-related illnesses such as cramps and exhaustion.
Continued exposure under such conditions also raises the risk of heat stroke, particularly during physical activity.
On Sunday, PAGASA recorded the highest heat index of 48°C in Aparri, Cagayan.
It was followed by 47°C in Abucay, Bataan.
Meanwhile, a heat index of 46°C was logged in Dagupan City, Pangasinan; Tuguegarao City, Cagayan; Baler, Aurora; and Casiguran, Aurora.
It hit 45°C in Virac, Catanduanes; while it reached 44°C in Pasay City, Metro Manila; Bacnotan, La Union; Calayan, Cagayan; Echague, Isabela; Muñoz, Nueva Ecija; Daet, Camarines Norte; Legazpi City, Albay; Masbate City, Masbate; and Pili, Camarines Sur.
PAGASA said the heat index was also recorded at 43°C in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte; Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya; Iba, Zambales; Ambulong, Tanauan, Batangas; Alabat, Quezon; Mambusao, Capiz; and Dipolog, Zamboanga del Norte.
It was registered at 42°C in Itbayat, Batanes; Basco, Batanes; Tanay, Rizal; and Roxas City, Capiz.
PAGASA recorded the highest heat index of the year so far, hitting 55°C in Guiuan, Eastern Samar, on both May 26 and 28.