ILOILO City – The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has recorded so far this year’s highest heat index in Iloilo – 44 degrees Celsius.
This occurred at 3 p.m. on Monday, April 15, according to Engr. Ferdinand Rubin Jr., a weather specialist at PAGASA Iloilo.
This index falls into the “danger category”, which can provoke heat-related illnesses such as heat cramps, heat stroke, and heat exhaustion, especially if one is exposed to the sun for prolonged periods.
The state weather bureau defines heat index as a “human discomfort index that gives the apparent temperature on what humans perceive or feel as the temperature (from the surroundings) affecting the body.”
Rubin warned the public not to be complacent as the heat index could remain high with April nearing its end.
The hot and dry season is expected to continue until May or the first week of June, influenced by the Easterlies, which bring warm air from the Pacific Ocean, he explained.
In fact, this month the lowest recorded heat index in Iloilo was 39 degrees Celsius, according to Rubin, a figure that only appeared three times. The rest of the month saw temperatures consistently above 40 degrees Celsius.
Rubin noted that such high indices are common during this period based on historical data.
The provinces of Iloilo, Guimaras, Antique, and Negros Occidental are currently experiencing drought conditions, defined as three consecutive months of way below-normal rainfall (less than 60 percent of average).
Meanwhile, Capiz is under a dry spell, with Aklan experiencing dry conditions, characterized by 21 to 60 percent reduction from average rainfall.
Rubin also mentioned a low pressure area outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility, stating it is unlikely to develop into a tropical cyclone.
Recent rainfall was attributed to localized thunderstorms.
Rubin reminded the public to take precautions during hot weather, advising to avoid sun exposure from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., drink plenty of water, carry umbrellas when going out, take any necessary medications before leaving home, and wear light clothing to minimize heat absorption.
FIRST-AID STEPS
The Department of Health (DOH) has issued first-aid measures against heat-related illnesses following reports of high heat index across the country.
If fatigue, dizziness, headache, vomiting and/or light-headedness are observed, the following first aid measures must be applied:
* Move the person to a shaded, cool area and provide ventilation.
* Remove the person’s outer clothing.
* Apply cold compresses, ice packs, cold water or cold wet cloth against the skin, especially the head, face, neck, armpits, wrists, ankles and groin.
* If the patient is conscious, encourage frequent slow sips of cool water.
* Contact emergency services or bring the person to the hospital immediately.
Preventive measures against heat-related illnesses have also been recommended by the DOH, including drinking plenty of water; avoidance of iced tea, soda, coffee or alcoholic drinks; limiting time spent outdoors between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and usage of protection against sunburn such as hats, umbrellas and sunblock; and wearing of loose fitting and lightweight clothing.
The health department likewise advised the public to regularly monitor heat index reports from Pagasa./PN
