March 4 ------ Dagupan City in Pangasinan is likely to reach the “danger” heat category index today (Tuesday) at 42ºC, state weather bureau PAGASA said. The Department of Health warned that heat index ranging from 42ºC to 51ºC are considered “danger” levels that can lead to heat cramps and heat exhaustion, with symptoms including fatigue, dizziness, headache, and vomiting. “Prolonged exposure to extreme heat increases the risk of heat stroke, a serious condition that can cause loss of consciousness, confusion, or seizures, and may be fatal if left untreated,” the DOH said.
Other areas with high heat index forecast but still below the dangel levels are Iba, Zambales at 41ºC and NAIA, Pasay City; Laoag City, Ilocos Norte; Bacnotan, La Union; ISU Echague, Isabela; and Sangley Point, Cavite at 39ºC. Heat index, otherwise known as the “apparent temperature,” is what the temperature feels like to the human body when relative humidity is combined with air temperature.
The state weather bureau reminded the public to limit time spent outdoors; drink plenty of water; avoid tea, coffee, soda and liquor; wear umbrellas, hats, and sleeved clothing outdoors; and schedule heavy-duty activities for the beginning or end of the day when the temperature is no longer high.
PAGASA Climate Monitoring and Prediction Section chief Ana Liza Solis said: “Based on historical data and monitoring, the northeast monsoon is usually terminated by mid- or third week of March. This is followed by months of warm and dry weather.” Solis said the bureau recorded 2024 as the hottest year in the Philippines – a year when a strong El Niño and record temperatures were recorded by experts. But for this year, she said the same level of intense heat may not be experienced. “Right now, we don’t see it being as hot this year compared to last year. But since it is warm and dry, it will still be hot. There is still the presence of the northeast monsoon. There are also convective activities that will bring rain, and the La Niña alert remains in place. This means there are still chances of light rain,” she said.
Solis said April and May are projected to be the warmest months, with maximum temperatures forecast at 39ºC in Northern Luzon. In Metro Manila, maximum temperatures by April and May were forecast at 37ºC. The heat index in Iba, Zambales reached 53°C on April 28, 2024 – the highest recorded last year. In terms of actual temperature, several PAGASA stations across the country posted new all-time records last year, including: Clark, Pampanga at 39.1°C; NAIA, Pasay City at 38.8°C; Sangley Point, Cavite City at 38.7°C; Butuan City at 38°C; and Malaybalay City at 37.5°C.
Source: manilastandard.net
Comments