ILOILO City – The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) has urged residents to take precautionary measures following the observed high heat index in the city since January 1 up to February 3.
In a report submitted to Mayor Jerry Treñas, CDRRMO head Donna Magno stated that the city’s heat index has been monitored using Shell Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) located in Diversion, Mandurriao district; Barangay Ungka, Jaro district; and Arevalo district.
Data from the Iloilo City Emergency Operations Center’s daily monitoring at 12 noon recorded the highest heat index at 47 degrees Celsius in Barangay Ungka on January 3. The lowest was 30 degrees Celsius, recorded in Arevalo on January 28.
Magno warned that if the high heat index persists, it could pose significant risks to public health, the environment, and society.
“Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to serious heat-related illnesses, dehydration, and respiratory diseases, among other conditions. The most vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, children, and those with co-morbidities, face higher risks from these effects. Additionally, higher demands for energy and water can be expected,” Magno stated in her report.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), the Dry Day Forecast from January to June 2025 indicates an increased number of dry days (defined as days with less than 1 mm of rainfall).
An anomaly is expected in February, April, and May, further exacerbating the dry conditions.
Proactive Measures Recommended
To mitigate the risks associated with prolonged high temperatures, Magno urged the Iloilo City DRRM Council to implement the following measures:
* Develop a comprehensive preparedness plan and launch an awareness campaign on water conservation through the Emergency Telecommunication, Information, and Education Cluster, led by the Office of the Public Information Officer.
* Promote public awareness campaigns via social media, local radio, and community meetings to educate residents on water conservation and potential water scarcity risks.
* Monitor water sources, including deep wells and refilling stations, through the Health and Sanitation Cluster, led by the City Health Office and supported by the City Environment and Natural Resources Office and the Liga ng mga Barangay.
* Conduct an inventory of available water storage facilities, including rainwater harvesting systems and water tankers, through the Logistics Cluster, led by the Office of the General Services Officer.
* Track heat-related illnesses through the City Health Office and monitor emergency cases handled by the Iloilo City Emergency Responders (ICER) under CDRRMO.
“These recommendations aim to ensure public preparedness and the readiness of concerned agencies to address potential issues arising from prolonged high temperatures,” Magno added.
Meanwhile, Magno also noted a PAGASA report on January 6 that a La Niña condition is present in the tropical Pacific and may persist until March 2025.
“This may bring higher chances of above-normal rainfall. However, we should remain vigilant for possible effects such as flooding or flash floods. We will continue monitoring the situation and provide regular updates to facilitate risk-informed decision-making,” she said.
Stay Hydrated, Avoid Prolonged Sun Exposure
CDRRMO continues to remind residents to stay hydrated, avoid direct sun exposure, and be cautious of heat-related illnesses, particularly as temperatures remain high.
Authorities will closely monitor the situation and implement necessary interventions to protect public health and safety./PN
