5 Luzon areas hit 'danger' level heat index on March 5

Heat index in five areas in Luzon reached the “danger” classification on Wednesday, March 5, said the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

A heat index between 42 to 51°C is considered dangerous, as heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely, and heatstroke is probable with continued exposure. 

PAGASA said the highest heat index on Wednesday was 43°C, recorded in Virac, Catanduanes, followed by 42°C in Echague, Isabela; Baler, Aurora; San Jose, Occidental Mindoro; and Pili, Camarines Sur.

In the next two days, PAGASA said San Jose, Occidental Mindoro may record a heat index of 42°C on March 6 and 42°C in Iba, Zambales and San Jose, Occidental Mindoro on March 7.

The heat index combines air temperature and relative humidity to estimate the apparent temperature, or how hot it feels to the human body.