Sixteen areas across the country are expected to experience a "danger" level heat index on Friday, April 18, with temperatures reaching as high as 43°C due to warm and humid conditions driven by easterlies.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), in its two-day forecast released on April 17, said the 16 areas have been placed under a “danger” level heat index — with temperatures ranging from 42°C to 43°C.
PAGASA said the highest heat index of 43°C is expected to be recorded in Echague, Isabela, and Sangley Point in Cavite City, Cavite Province.
Meanwhile, heat indices of 42°C are also forecast at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Pasay City; Aparri, Cagayan; Tuguegarao City, Cagayan; Baler, Aurora; Iba, Zambales; Cubi Point in Subic Bay, Olongapo City; San Ildefonso, Bulacan; Ambulong in Tanauan, Batangas; Infanta, Quezon; San Jose, Occidental Mindoro; Roxas City, Capiz; Dumangas, Iloilo; Catarman, Northern Samar; and Cotabato City, Maguindanao.
PAGASA’s heat index classification indicates that areas with heat indices ranging from 42°C to 51°C fall under the “danger” level.
Individuals in these areas may experience heat cramps and heat exhaustion, and continued activity could lead to heat stroke.
PAGASA urged residents to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and take precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses as the sweltering weather continues.
Easterlies to persist
In its latest weather forecast, PAGASA said that easterlies—or winds coming from the Pacific Ocean—will continue to affect the country.
Metro Manila and the rest of the country may experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms due to the easterlies, according to PAGASA.
Flash floods or landslides during severe thunderstorms are possible in affected areas, PAGASA added.