SCORCHING HEAT. Commuters endure scorching noontime heat while waiting for public transportation along the Elliptical road in Quezon City on Thursday (April 18, 2024). In a Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon interview over PTV4, the weather bureau’s Climate Monitoring and Prediction Section chief Ana Liza said 52°Celsius and above or extreme danger heat index are likely in some areas because of El Niño. (PNA photo by Jelly F. Musico)
MANILA – The weather bureau on Thursday said some areas in the country could experience extreme danger heat index, or what the temperature feels like to the human body when relative humidity is combined with the air temperature.
Although no specific areas were cited, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration's (PAGASA) Climate Monitoring and Prediction Section chief Ana Liza said 52°Celsius (°C) and above or extreme danger heat index are likely in some areas because of El Niño.
"Based on PAGASA's monitoring on high discomfort index or heat index, there's (the) possibility that some areas could experience extreme danger (level) or 52°C and above," Solis said in the Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon interview over PTV4.
In such a case, she said direct sun exposure could cause heat stroke.
Solid added that relatively high humidity is expected in the 52 degrees Celsius heat index.
It could also cause rain showers due to thunderstorms, she added.
Historically, PAGASA has been recording high heat indices in April and May, according to Solis.
Next month, high heat indices are forecast in Cagayan Valley, especially in Isabela, Cagayan, as well as Ilocos Region and Central Luzon.
Metro Manila, Cavite, and Batangas could also experience scorching heat.
Solis said they noticed areas that have logged high heat indices this April are places that are near coastal areas.
Meanwhile, Solis said PAGASA urges the public to drink plenty of water and to limit the time spent outdoors.
"Let's try to avoid outdoor activities, especially between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.," she said.
Avoid tea, soda, and alcohol as these increase the risk of dehydration, Solis added. (PNA)
