24 areas face 'dangerous' heat index levels on May 11
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) warned that 24 areas across the country may experience heat index levels classified as “dangerous,” with temperatures that may feel like 42 to 44 degrees Celsius (°C), on Sunday, May 11.
PAGASA reported that Tuguegarao City, Cagayan and Tayabas City, Quezon could register the highest heat index of 44°C.
A heat index of 43°C is forecast in 10 areas: Laoag City, Ilocos Norte; Bacnotan, La Union; Echague, Isabela; Iba, Zambales; Cavite City, Cavite; Coron, Palawan; San Jose, Occidental Mindoro; Cuyo, Palawan; Dumangas, Iloilo; and Butuan City, Agusan del Norte.
Meanwhile, a 42°C heat index may affect 12 areas: Dagupan City, Pangasinan; Batac, Ilocos Norte; Aparri, Cagayan; Olongapo City, Zambales; San Ildefonso, Bulacan; Tanauan, Batangas; Infanta, Quezon; Alabat, Quezon; Masbate City, Masbate; Roxas City, Capiz; Iloilo City, Iloilo; and Tacloban City, Leyte.
PAGASA categorizes heat index values from 42°C to 51°C as dangerous due to increased risk of heat cramps and heat exhaustion.
Prolonged exposure may also lead to heatstroke, especially among vulnerable individuals.