Three areas in Luzon could experience a heat index of up to 45 degrees Celsius on Saturday, May 24, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
Scorching heat: 3 areas to reach 45°C heat index on May 24
PAGASA urges individuals in areas experiencing "danger" level heat index to take necessary precautions
PAGASA / MB Visual Content Group
In its heat index forecast released on May 23, PAGASA said Laoag City in Ilocos Norte, Dagupan City in Pangasinan, and Aparri in Cagayan may record a heat index of 45ºC.
PAGASA also noted that 15 other areas may experience heat indices at the “danger level,” including:
- 44°C: Tuguegarao City, Cagayan; Cubi Point, Subic Bay; Olongapo City
- 43°C: Sinait, Ilocos Sur; MMSU, Batac, Ilocos Norte; ISU Echague, Isabela; Baler (Radar), Aurora; Casiguran, Aurora; Infanta, Quezon; Iloilo City, Iloilo
- 42°C: Bacnotan, La Union; Calayan, Cagayan; Iba, Zambales; Hacienda Luisita, Tarlac City; San Jose, Occidental Mindoro; Masbate City, Masbate
According to PAGASA’s classification, a "danger level" heat index ranges from 42°C to 51°C, posing significant health risks.
At this level, individuals may experience heat cramps and heat exhaustion, while prolonged exposure increases the likelihood of heat stroke.
In Metro Manila, PAGASA noted that two areas may experience a heat index under the “extreme caution” level: NAIA, Pasay City, and the Science Garden in Quezon City (40°C).
The heat index represents the apparent temperature—how hot it feels—based on the combined effects of air temperature and humidity, as defined by PAGASA.