A significant heat wave is expected to grip various parts of the Philippines this Saturday, May 3, with the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) warning of hazardous heat index levels in 19 areas, including Pasay City and Quezon City in Metro Manila. The heat index is expected to reach dangerous levels in these regions and others across the country, signaling a need for precautionary measures against heat-related illnesses.
PAGASA’s latest heat index bulletin revealed that Pasay City, home to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, is projected to experience a heat index of 43°C, while Quezon City, particularly at the Science Garden, is expected to feel a sweltering 42°C. A heat index within the range of 42°C to 51°C is considered “dangerous,” and prolonged exposure to such temperatures may lead to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, or even heat stroke.
Key areas under the ‘Dangerous’ heat category
The highest predicted heat index for Saturday will occur in several locations, including Baler in Aurora, Iba in Zambales, Sangley Point in Cavite, and Infanta in Quezon, all of which are expected to experience a peak of 44°C.
Other areas under the “dangerous” category, with heat indices reaching 43°C, include:
- Dagupan City (Pangasinan)
- Isabela State University in Echague (Isabela)
- Cubi Point in Subic Bay (Olongapo City)
Additionally, a number of locations are expected to experience 42°C heat, including:
- Laoag City (Ilocos Norte)
- Bacnotan (La Union)
- Tuguegarao City (Cagayan)
- Central Luzon State University (Nueva Ecija)
- Various spots across Tarlac and Batangas
- Several locations in Palawan, including Cuyo and Puerto Princesa City
Moderate heat risks in other regions
While some areas are facing extreme heat, other regions will fall under the “extreme caution” category, where the heat index will range between 33°C and 41°C. This includes:
- 41°C Heat Index:
- Sinait (Ilocos Sur)
- Mariano Marcos State University in Batac (Ilocos Norte)
- Casiguran (Aurora)
- Zamboanga City (Zamboanga del Sur)
- 40°C Heat Index:
- Tayabas City (Quezon)
- Calapan (Oriental Mindoro)
- Iloilo City (Iloilo)
- Butuan City (Agusan del Norte)
- 39°C Heat Index:
- Dumaguete City (Negros Oriental)
- Panglao International Airport (Bohol)
- Mactan International Airport (Cebu)
- Davao City (Davao del Sur)
Other regions experiencing heat indices in the 38°C to 37°C range include parts of Albay, Surigao del Sur, and several areas in Mindanao and Visayas. These regions, while not experiencing “dangerous” levels, still require caution as the temperatures can contribute to discomfort and dehydration.
Baguio City to stay cooler
In contrast, Baguio City, known for its cooler climate, will enjoy a relatively mild 27°C heat index, falling within the “caution” category, which is significantly lower than the sweltering conditions affecting the rest of the country.
PAGASA advisories: Stay safe and hydrated
PAGASA urges everyone to stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions should take extra precautions. The public is also encouraged to follow local advisories and seek shelter in cool, shaded areas to avoid heat-related illnesses.
As the heat wave intensifies across the Philippines, the need for vigilance and preparedness is critical to minimizing the risks associated with extreme temperatures.