Fifteen areas may experience dangerous heat index levels on Thursday, May 29, fewer than the over 20 areas affected daily in the past few weeks, based on the latest forecast from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
PAGASA
Masbate City, Masbate may register the highest heat index at 44°C.
Meanwhile, five other areas may experience a heat index of 43°C: Aparri, Cagayan; Tuguegarao City, Cagayan; Echague, Isabela; Camiling, Tarlac; and Butuan City, Agusan del Norte.
Nine additional areas may register a 42°C heat index. These include Dagupan City, Pangasinan; Bacnotan, La Union; Iba, Zambales; Daet, Camarines Norte; Virac, Catanduanes; Pili, Camarines Sur; Borongan, Eastern Samar; Maasin, Southern Leyte; and Dipolog, Zamboanga 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.