The Heat Index Will Reach "Danger Level" In 16 Places; Ph Will See Mostly Fair Weather

Heat Index Warning: Which Areas Are Affected?

PAGASA defines a "danger level" heat index as temperatures ranging from 42°C to 51°C, which can cause heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke with prolonged exposure. The following 16 locations are expected to experience extreme heat:

• Metro Manila
• Tuguegarao, Cagayan
• Dagupan, Pangasinan
• Laoag, Ilocos Norte
• San Jose, Occidental Mindoro
• Puerto Princesa, Palawan
• Legazpi, Albay
• Metro Cebu
• Zamboanga City
• Davao City
• Cagayan de Oro
• Cotabato City
• Butuan, Agusan del Norte
• General Santos City
• Iligan City
• Roxas City, Capiz

What Causes the Intense Heat?

PAGASA attributes the rising heat index to:

• The El Niño phenomenon, which has caused warmer-than-usual temperatures.
• Weaker winds from the northeast monsoon (Amihan), allowing heat to build up during the day.
• Limited cloud cover, meaning more direct exposure to the sun.

According to PAGASA, mid-March to May is typically the hottest time of the year in the Philippines, and temperatures could rise even further in April.

Health Risks and Safety Precautions

With temperatures soaring to dangerous levels, PAGASA is urging residents in affected areas to take precautions against heat-related illnesses:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM.
• Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing to stay cool.
• Use umbrellas, hats, or sunblock when going outdoors.
• Limit strenuous physical activities, particularly for the elderly, young children, and those with pre-existing conditions.

Hospitals are also on alert for heatstroke cases, as the Department of Health (DOH) has noted an increase in heat-related illnesses over the past few weeks.

Fair Weather for Most of PH, Isolated Rains Expected

Despite the intense heat, most of the Philippines will see generally fair weather, with only localized thunderstorms expected in some areas.

PAGASA noted that scattered rain showers might occur in:

• Western Visayas
• MIMAROPA (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan)
• Zamboanga Peninsula

These rain showers will provide temporary relief, but temperatures are expected to remain above normal for the next few days.

How Long Will the Heat Last?

PAGASA forecasts that the heat index will remain high until at least late May, when the rainy season is expected to begin. However, if El Niño persists, hot and dry conditions may extend beyond normal summer months.

Authorities continue to monitor weather conditions, urging Filipinos to remain vigilant against both extreme heat and possible water shortages due to reduced rainfall in the coming months.