ILOILO City – The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) in Iloilo has issued warnings about the persistently hot weather expected to last through May.
According to PAGASA Iloilo’s Weather Specialist 1, Engr. Ferdinand Rubin Jr., the public should brace for heat index values ranging from 40 to 44 degrees Celsius during this period.
May, which falls within the hot and dry season, is influenced by prevailing Easterlies wind conditions.
On April 27, at 1 p.m., PAGASA Iloilo recorded a heat index of 46 degrees Celsius, the highest since last year. Throughout the day, the heat index values were alarmingly high, reaching 43 degrees at 11 a.m., 45 degrees at noon, and maintaining 45 degrees by 2 p.m.
Rubin explained that this surge was due to a combination of high temperatures and humidity.
The recorded temperature on that day was 35.6 degrees Celsius, slightly above the typical range of 34 to 35 degrees.
Humidity levels also peaked at 59 percent, which was higher than the usual 39 to 54 percent observed in previous weeks.
High humidity contributed significantly to the heat index, making the weather feel hotter.
Additionally, high humidity levels increased the likelihood of cloud formation and subsequent rainfall.
Rubin noted that the evening rain on April 27 was due to these conditions, although it did not indicate the onset of the rainy season, which is expected to begin post-May.
Despite the extreme heat recorded, Rubin said that while the possibility of reaching or exceeding a 46-degree Celsius heat index again exists, the chances remain low.
PAGASA Iloilo continues to monitor the situation closely, urging the public to stay informed and take necessary precautions during this exceptionally hot period./PN
