The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) announced on Tuesday, June 18, the suspension of its daily heat index reports, citing a decline in areas experiencing dangerous heat index levels during the rainy season.
PAGASA cited the occurrence of rain showers and thunderstorms in many areas, along with the conclusion of the El Niño phenomenon, as the reasons for suspending its daily issuance of heat index information starting June 18.
“During this period, it is important to focus on providing accurate and timely information related to hazards and potential impacts associated with the rainy season,” it said.
PAGASA noted that the daily monitoring of the heat index and issuance of forecasts will resume on March 1, 2025, coinciding with the hot and dry months in many parts of the country.
While daily heat index reports are suspended, PAGASA’s automated weather stations will continue to provide heat indices, which can be accessed through the PAGASA website.
PAGASA said this service could help assess areas that may still experience elevated heat indices.
The country recorded the highest heat index of the year so far, hitting 55°C in Guiuan, Eastern Samar, on both May 26 and 28.