Scorching conditions were felt across parts of the country on Monday, April 27, as 16 areas, including Metro Manila, reached danger-level heat index values ranging from 42°C to 46°C, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

Dagupan City in Pangasinan and Puerto Princesa City in Palawan recorded the highest heat index at 46°C, followed by Sangley Point in Cavite City at 45°C.

A heat index of 43°C was registered in San Jose in Occidental Mindoro, Aborlan and Cuyo in Palawan, Iloilo City in Iloilo, and Butuan City in Agusan del Norte.

Metro Manila also reached danger level conditions as NAIA in Pasay City recorded a heat index of 42°C.

Other areas that registered 42°C included Bacnotan in La Union, Aparri in Cagayan, Baler in Aurora, Iba in Zambales, Cubi Point in Subic Bay Olongapo City, Catarman in Northern Samar, and Zamboanga City in Zamboanga del Sur.

The danger level heat index, ranging from 42°C to 51°C, indicates a high risk of heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and possible heat stroke, especially with prolonged exposure to outdoor conditions.

Heat index combines air temperature and relative humidity to estimate the apparent temperature felt by the human body.

“The heat actually felt by the human body (apparent temperature) cannot be accurately measured by air temperature alone. It is more accurately estimated by including data on heat and humidity (relative humidity),” PAGASA said.

PAGASA weather specialist Aldczar Aurelio said most of the country will continue to experience hot and humid conditions due to the prevalence of warm winds coming from the Pacific Ocean, locally known as the “easterlies.”

However, he noted that thunderstorms may begin to become more frequent, which could bring rain showers especially in the afternoon or evening.

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