(PNA photo by Joan Bondoc)
MANILA – The weather bureau on Monday cautioned the public against heat-related symptoms and the dangers of heat indices categories.
This, after the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said high temperatures will continue over parts of the country in May, with Northern Luzon forecast to reach up to 40.8°C.
"It's important that we know the symptoms -- excessive sweating heat exhaustion, tiredness, dizziness, blurred vision until you vomit. It's a bit alarming when you throw up. That would need immediate actions," PAGASA weather specialist John Manalo said during the Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon briefing over People's Television Network.
Manalo also pointed out that some even lose consciousness.
"As such, it is also important to be aware of heat indices categories," he added.
Heat indices of 41 °C to 51 °C are in the danger category.
Under this level, heat cramps and heat exhaustion are possible, while continued exposure could also cause heat stroke.
On the other hand, heat indices of 52 °C and above are considered "extreme danger" wherein direct sun exposure could cause heat stroke.
Zambales registered a 53 °C heat index on Sunday, the highest so far this year.
On Saturday, the temperature in Metro Manila reached 38.8 °C.
"We observed that in Metro Manila, one of the hottest years is 2024 because of El Niño. Although it is weakening, its effects continue to persist," Manalo said.
Meanwhile, he said there were usually 10 to 15 areas per day that fall under the danger level heat indices in early April.
Currently, there are about 36 areas under the danger level heat indices category. He said there could be more.
"The magnitude of heat index could also increase in the first two weeks of May. So, let's continue to monitor locations that could reach the extreme danger category," he said. (PNA)
