The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has issued a weather alert for Saturday, April 26, forecasting rain showers in parts of Mindanao and extreme heat in at least 29 areas across the country.

In its weather forecast, PAGASA warned the public to prepare for intense temperatures and possible thunderstorms, as varying weather conditions affect different regions.

PAGASA said that the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) is affecting Mindanao, bringing cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms to the region.

Meanwhile, the rest of the Philippines is experiencing the influence of easterlies, which are causing partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms.

Weather updates by area

In Mindanao, PAGASA warned of moderate to heavy rains due to the ITCZ, with potential risks of flash floods or landslides in low-lying or mountainous areas.

PAGASA also noted that the easterlies are contributing to cloudy skies and scattered rains in Eastern Samar and Southern Leyte.

While the weather remains partly cloudy to cloudy, isolated rain showers or thunderstorms are possible in Metro Manila and other areas, according to PAGASA.

Heat index: Staying safe during scorching days

In addition to the rainy conditions, various parts of the country are experiencing high heat indices.

Based on the heat index forecast issued on April 25, PAGASA stated that some areas with the highest expected heat indices include Muñoz, Nueva Ecija (45°C), Sangley Point, Cavite City (44°C), San Jose, Occidental Mindoro (44°C), Dagupan City, Pangasinan (43°C), and Tuguegarao City, Cagayan (43°C).

Several other provinces, including Palawan, Quezon, and Iloilo, reported heat indices exceeding 42°C.

PAGASA advised residents in the affected areas to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged sun exposure, and watch for signs of heat-related illnesses, such as heat cramps or heat exhaustion.

The following 29 areas are under the "danger" level heat index:

Laoag, Ilocos Norte – 42°C

Dagupan City, Pangasinan – 43°C

Batac, Ilocos Norte – 42°C

Bacnotan, La Union – 43°C

Aparri, Cagayan – 42°C

Tuguegarao City, Cagayan – 43°C

Echague, Isabela – 43°C

Baler, Aurora – 42°C

Muñoz, Nueva Ecija – 45°C

Subic Bay, Olongapo City – 43°C

Camiling, Tarlac – 42°C

Tayabas, Quezon – 42°C

Sangley Point, Cavite City – 44°C

Ambulong, Tanauan, Batangas – 43°C

Infanta, Quezon – 43°C

Mulanay, Quezon – 42°C

Los Baños, Laguna – 42°C

Coron, Palawan – 43°C

San Jose, Occidental Mindoro – 44°C

Puerto Princesa City, Palawan – 43°C

Cuyo, Palawan – 42°C

Daet, Camarines Norte – 42°C

Legazpi City, Albay – 42°C

Masbate City, Masbate – 42°C

Pili, Camarines Sur – 43°C

Roxas City, Capiz – 42°C

Iloilo City, Iloilo – 43°C

Dumangas, Iloilo – 42°C

Catarman, Northern Samar – 42°C

Precautions for severe weather

Authorities remind the public to remain vigilant, especially during heavy rain events that may cause flash floods or landslides.

PAGASA encouraged residents in affected areas to stay updated with the latest weather advisories from local disaster management offices.

For those in areas experiencing higher temperatures, PAGASA strongly recommends staying cool and avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours.