Over 30 areas may experience 'dangerous' heat index on May 21
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has identified 37 areas across the country that may experience “dangerous” heat index levels, ranging from 42 degrees Celsius (°C) to 46°C, on Wednesday, May 21.
Dagupan City, Pangasinan and Aparri, Cagayan may register the highest heat index at 46°C, while Laoag City, Ilocos Norte and Tuguegarao City, Cagayan may experience a heat index of 45°C.
A heat index of 44°C may be recorded in seven areas: Sinait, Ilocos Sur; Batac, Ilocos Norte; Baler, Aurora; San Jose, Occidental Mindoro; Daet, Camarines Norte; Masbate City, Masbate; and Iloilo City, Iloilo.
Seven additional areas may register 43°C, including Bacnotan, La Union; Echague, Isabela; Casiguran, Aurora; Olongapo City, Zambales; Camiling, Tarlac; Coron, Palawan; and Cuyo, Palawan.
Nineteen other areas may record a 42°C heat index: Calayan, Cagayan; Iba, Zambales; Clark, Pampanga; Tarlac City, Tarlac; Cavite City, Cavite; Tanauan, Batangas; Infanta, Quezon; Alabat, Quezon; Los Baños, Laguna; Calapan, Oriental Mindoro; Legazpi City, Albay; Virac, Catanduanes; Pili, Camarines Sur; Roxas City, Capiz; Dumangas, Iloilo; Catarman, Northern Samar; Borongan, Eastern Samar; Dipolog, Zamboanga del Norte; and Butuan City, Agusan del Norte.
PAGASA classifies heat indices between 42°C and 51°C as “dangerous,” due to an increased risk of heat cramps and heat exhaustion.
The weather bureau also warned that prolonged exposure may lead to heatstroke, particularly among vulnerable individuals, such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.