By Teofilo Garcia Jr.
ZAMBOANGA CITY – The city government suspended classes in public and private schools on Thursday due to the extreme heat index.
City Administrator Percival Ramos issued the order at the instruction of Mayor Khymer Olaso as the heat index hit the danger level of 43 degrees Celsius, based on the latest forecast of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
The order suspends classes from pre-school to Grade 12.
“Concerned school authorities are advised to adopt other learning modalities to ensure continuous education,” Ramos said.
He advised the public to consistently practice safety measures amid the dangerously high heat index.
The public, especially the vulnerable sector, is advised to stay hydrated at all times.
The heat index (HI) measures temperature as perceived by humans, combining actual air temperature and relative humidity, in shaded areas.
PAGASA said high humidity makes temperatures feel hotter than the same temperatures in drier conditions, because sweat evaporates less effectively and provides less cooling.
Meanwhile, the city’s Task Force El Niño is reviewing ongoing preparedness measures and assessing the potential impact of prolonged dry conditions.
PAGASA has forecast a very strong El Niño until December, with conditions expected to persist until February 2027.
