PAGASA warns of 'dangerous' heat index levels in 30 areas on May 23
With heat indices expected to climb as high as 46 degrees Celsius (°C), the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) flagged 30 areas for possible “dangerous” conditions on Friday, May 23.
PAGASA said the highest heat index is forecast in Aparri, Cagayan, at 46°C.
Dagupan City, Pangasinan follows with a 45°C heat index.
Meanwhile, a heat index of 44°C may be recorded in three areas, which include Laoag City, Ilocos Norte; Tuguegarao City, Cagayan; and Olongapo City, Zambales.
Thirteen additional areas may register 43°C, including Batac, Ilocos Norte; Bacnotan, La Union; Echague, Isabela; Baler, Aurora; Casiguran, Aurora; Camiling, Tarlac; Cavite City, Cavite; Tanauan, Batangas; Infanta, Quezon; Alabat, Quezon; Daet, Camarines Norte; Masbate City, Masbate; and Catarman, Northern Samar.
Twelve other areas may record a 42°C heat index: Pasay City, Metro Manila; Sinait, Ilocos Sur; Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya; Iba, Zambales; Los Baños, Laguna; San Jose, Occidental Mindoro; Cuyo, Palawan; Legazpi City, Albay; Pili, Camarines Sur; Iloilo City, Iloilo; Dumangas, Iloilo; and Catbalogan, Western Samar.
PAGASA categorizes 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.