The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) warned that 26 areas across the country could record heat indices of 42 degrees Celsius (°C) to 45°C, which fall under the “danger” category for heat-related illnesses, on Friday, April 25.
Based on PAGASA’s forecast, Dagupan City in Pangasinan may register the highest heat index at 45 degrees Celsius (°C).
A heat index of 44°C may also be felt in Iba, Zambales; Tanauan, Batangas; and Coron, Palawan.
Meanwhile, a 43°C may be recorded in Bacnotan, La Union; Tuguegarao City, Cagayan; San Jose, Occidental Mindoro; Puerto Princesa City, Palawan; Cuyo, Palawan; Masbate City, Masbate; Pili, Camarines Sur; and Dumangas, Iloilo.
Areas that could experience a 42°C heat index include Echague, Isabela; Baler, Aurora; Muñoz, Nueva Ecija; Olongapo City, Zambales; San Ildefonso, Bulacan; Cavite City, Cavite; Infanta, Quezon; Legazpi City, Albay; Roxas City, Capiz; Mambusao, Capiz; Iloilo City, Iloilo; and La Carlota, Negros Occidental.
PAGASA classifies heat indices between 42°C and 51°C as dangerous.
At this level, people are at increased risk of heat cramps and heat exhaustion, while prolonged exposure may lead to heatstroke, especially among vulnerable populations.
Moreover, PAGASA weather specialist Grace Castañeda said the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) will continue to bring cloudy skies, scattered rains, and thunderstorms to Surigao del Sur, Davao Oriental, Davao Occidental, Sarangani, Sultan Kudarat, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi.
The rest of Mindanao may also experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms.
Meanwhile, hot and humid conditions will persist in Luzon and Visayas due to the easterlies, although localized thunderstorms remain possible.
As of Friday, Castañeda said PAGASA has not monitored any low-pressure areas or tropical cyclones inside the country’s area of responsibility.