As temperatures remain high across various parts of the country, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) warned that the heat index may reach 42°C to 45°C on Wednesday, May 28.
Butuan City, Agusan del Norte may record the highest heat index at 45°C.
Four other areas may experience a heat index of 44°C: Laoag City, Ilocos Norte; Dagupan City, Pangasinan; Aparri, Cagayan; and Masbate City, Masbate.
Meanwhile, five areas may record a heat index of 43°C: Batac, Ilocos Norte; Bacnotan, La Union; Pili, Camarines Sur; Catarman, Northern Samar; and Dipolog, Zamboanga del Norte.
An additional 12 areas may experience a 42°C heat index. These are Pasay City, Metro Manila; Sinait, Ilocos Sur; Tuguegarao City, Cagayan; Echague, Isabela; Baler, Aurora; Iba, Zambales; Daet, Camarines Norte; Legazpi City, Albay; Virac, Catanduanes; Juban, Sorsogon; Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Sur; and Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur.
PAGASA classifies heat indices between 42°C and 51°C as “dangerous,” due to an increased risk of heat cramps and heat exhaustion.
The agency warned that prolonged exposure may also lead to heatstroke, particularly among vulnerable individuals, such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.