ILOILO City – The heat index in this city soared to a dangerous 46 degrees Celsius on April 8, the highest recorded in the metro so far this year, prompting the state weather bureau to issue urgent warnings against heat-related illnesses.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) Iloilo, the spike was observed around 1 p.m. on Tuesday, categorizing the heat index under the “danger” level – where heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely, and heat stroke is possible with prolonged exposure.
“This is the highest heat index we have recorded in Iloilo City in 2025,” said PAGASA-Iloilo weather specialist Jeff Patrick Maquiling in an interview with Panay News.
PAGASA explained that the intense heat was caused by cloudless skies, allowing direct solar radiation, and the official termination of La Niña on April 4, which typically brings cooler, wetter conditions.
Data showed that even before peaking at 46°C, the city’s heat index already hit 42°C at both 12 noon and 2 p.m. that same day.
In recent weeks, heat index levels had hovered between 38°C and 42°C.
Maquiling warned that as the country moves deeper into the hot and dry season, higher temperatures and heat index values should be expected throughout April and May.
“We are advising the public to brace for more extreme heat in the coming days,” he said.
Advisories and Precautions
PAGASA is strongly advising residents to take extra precautions, especially from 12 noon to 3 p.m. when the heat index typically peaks. These include drinking plenty of water, wearing light-colored and breathable clothing, and using umbrellas or hats when going outdoors.
The elderly, children, and individuals with medical conditions such as hypertension are particularly vulnerable and are urged to stay indoors during peak heat hours.
“Unless absolutely necessary, our elderly should avoid going outside during these critical hours because the risk of heat stroke is very real,” Maquiling added.
Iloilo City was not alone in registering such extreme heat. Dagupan City in Pangasinan also recorded a 46°C heat index on the same day.
Understanding Heat Index Levels
PAGASA’s heat index advisory outlines the following categories:
* Extreme Danger (≥52°C) – Cancel outdoor and physically intensive activities like sports events and field trips.
* Danger (42–51°C) – Limit activities for those not acclimatized to heat and at-risk groups; reschedule to cooler hours.
* Extreme Caution (33–41°C) – Reschedule strenuous activities, provide frequent rest and hydration breaks.
* Caution (27–32°C) – Activities can continue but monitor for early signs of heat-related illness.
PAGASA is closely monitoring the situation and is expected to issue further bulletins as the heat intensifies.
Early this week, the Iloilo City government announced that all face-to-face classes from preschool to senior high school in the metro will be automatically suspended once the heat index reaches or exceeds 41°C.
Mayor Jerry P. Treñas’ Executive Order No. 024-A, Series of 2025 on this was issued in response to escalating concerns over extreme temperatures and their potential health hazards, particularly for students and school personnel.
Treñas also urged schools to implement flexible schedules or shift to alternative learning modalities once the heat index hits 40°C as a precautionary measure.
“We are taking this step to ensure the safety and well-being of our community, particularly our young learners,” said Treñas.
To mitigate heat risks, the Department of Health advises the public to:
* Avoid outdoor activities between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
* Schedule physical exertion during early morning or late afternoon.
* Stay well-hydrated.
* Wear light-colored, loose clothing.
* Use umbrellas, hats, and other forms of sun protection./PN