The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) warned that 28 areas across the country, including Pasay City in Metro Manila, could experience a “danger level” heat index on Thursday, April 24.
Based on its forecast, PAGASA said Tuguegarao City in Cagayan may record the highest heat index of the day at 45 degrees Celsius (°C).
A heat index of 44°C may also be felt in Dagupan City, Pangasinan; Echague, Isabela; Baler, Aurora; Casiguran, Aurora; Iba, Zambales; and Cavite City, Cavite.
Meanwhile, a 43°C may be recorded in Bacnotan, La Union; Clark, Pampanga; Muñoz, Nueva Ecija; San Ildefonso, Bulacan; Camiling, Tarlac; Tarlac City, Tarlac; Tanauan, Batangas; Alabat, Quezon; San Jose, Occidental Mindoro; Puerto Princesa City, Palawan; Pili, Camarines Sur; Dumangas, Iloilo; and Panglao, Bohol.
Areas that could experience a 42°C heat index include Pasay City, Metro Manila; Aparri, Cagayan; Olongapo City, Zambales; Coron, Palawan; Cuyo, Palawan; Legazpi City, Albay; Masbate City, Masbate; and Roxas City, Capiz.
PAGASA classifies heat index values between 42°C and 51°C as dangerous.
At this level, the risk of heat cramps and heat exhaustion increases significantly and prolonged exposure may lead to heatstroke, especially among vulnerable individuals.
PAGASA weather specialist Chenel Dominguez said that as of Thursday, no low-pressure areas or tropical cyclones are being monitored.
Only the easterlies and the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) are expected to bring isolated rain showers or thunderstorms across most of the country over the next 24 hours.