DAVAO CITY – Dabawenyos and tourists coming to the city for the Araw ng Dabaw activities throughout the month are advised to take precautions against the extreme heat brought about by the El Niño weather phenomenon.
In an interview on Tuesday, City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) chief Alfredo Baloran said participants and merrymakers are advised to limit sun exposure to avoid sunburn and hives and to prevent even more severe health risks, such as heatstroke and skin cancer.
Baloran cited a Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) El Niño Advisory, which projected the heat index to reach 35 to 37 degrees Celsius from March 8-12. The dry season, he noted, is expected to last until May.
"Our heat index is very high. That is the advisory for the public, especially since we have activities for the Araw ng Dabaw," he said, adding that everyone should keep hydrated, especially those participating in events that are directly under the sun's heat.
CDRRMO-911 responders will be deployed to key areas of the festivities to respond to emergencies caused by the extreme heat, he added.
Baloran said foot medics, ambulance and DRRMC personnel are trained to respond to medical emergencies, and will be stationed near areas of convergence for the Araw ng Dabaw.
The CDRRMO also advised the public to take extra measures for the weather, as rain showers have also been experienced amid the extreme heat.
"Our reminder is that it is hot during the daytime, and there are scattered rain showers and localized thunderstorms in the afternoon. Slowly, the La Niña (phenomenon) is coming, so we are also preparing (for that))," Baloran said. (PNA)
