BY NYARIKA DOMANAIS
ILOILO – Miag-ao’s Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) has reported the highest heat index in Iloilo, hitting 48 degrees Celsius, induced by the El Niño phenomenon.
The peak occurred at 12:40 p.m. on Sunday, May 5, as per the MDRRMO Miag-ao’s Facebook post.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), a heat index ranging from 42 to 51 degrees Celsius falls under the danger category, increasing the likelihood of heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and potentially heat strokes with prolonged exposure.
MDRRMO-Miag-ao urged the public to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged sun exposure, wear lightweight, light-colored clothing, and seek shade or air-conditioned spaces to mitigate the impact of high heat index.
They also advised limiting outdoor activities during peak heat hours and keeping a close watch on the elderly, individuals with medical conditions, or anyone vulnerable to heat-related issues.
The municipality of Miag-ao also experienced a heat index of 48 degrees Celsius on April 30, at 1:59 p.m./PN