ILOILO – The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) is warning the public about the heat index levels across Western Visayas, which have entered the “extreme caution” category.
Under this classification, temperatures people are experiencing can lead to health issues such as discomfort, heat stroke, heat cramps, and heat exhaustion.
On March 7, at various times throughout the afternoon, the heat index values recorded by PAGASA-Iloilo ranged from 38 to 39 degrees Celsius.
The following day, at noon, a heat index of 35 degrees Celsius was recorded.
On March 6, a peak heat index of 41 degrees Celsius was observed at 2 p.m.
However, the highest heat index recorded by PAGASA-Iloilo this year was on January 5, when it reached 42 degrees Celsius.
Engr. Ferdinand Rubin Jr., a weather specialist at PAGASA-Iloilo, said that based on annual records the hottest part of the day typically occurs from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. During such times, the heat is considered to fall within the extreme caution category. Should temperatures rise to 40 degrees Celsius or above, they would be deemed dangerous or hazardous.
Rubin highlighted the seasonal nature of these conditions, particularly during the months of March, April, and May, which are traditionally the hot and dry season, or summer. It is common for the heat index to reach between 40 to 44 degrees Celsius during this period.
Factors contributing to the very high heat index include the El Niño phenomenon and easterlies, or winds from the Pacific Ocean, aside from the onset of the summer season.
Rubin previously alerted the public to the possibility of even hotter weather in March and April, which could potentially lead to drought conditions in April or May. The provinces at risk of experiencing drought include Negros Occidental, Iloilo, Antique, and Guimaras, with drought defined as three consecutive months of significantly below-normal rainfall (less than a 60 percent reduction from average).
To mitigate the effects of the heat, PAGASA Iloilo advises the public to drink plenty of water, avoid direct sun exposure, refrain from strenuous activities under the sun, use an umbrella for protection, and wear light clothing to reduce heat absorption.
The Department of Health (DOH) Region 6 also recently issued reminders about the potential increase in illnesses due to El Niño, advising the public to limit heat exposure, consume plenty of fluids, heed health advisories, ensure the safety of drinking and household water, and seek medical consultation if unwell or exhibiting symptoms of illness./PN
