PAGASA: 7 areas may experience dangerous heat index

Seven areas across the country may suffer from a dangerous level of heat index on Sunday, according to state weather bureau PAGASA.

Based on its 5 p.m. forecast on Saturday, PAGASA said the following areas may experience heat index ranging from 42 to 51 degrees Celsius on April 7:

• Laoag City, Ilocos Norte: 42°C
• Dagupan City, Pangasinan: 43°C
• Aparri, Cagayan: 43°C
• Tuguegarao City, Cagayan: 43°C
• Puerto Princesa City, Palawan: 42°C
• Daet, Camarines Norte: 42°C
• Cotabato City, Maguindanao: 42°C

Meanwhile, Baguio City and Benguet State University in La Trinidad, as well as Tanay, Rizal and Central Mindanao University in Bukidnon, may have a heat index ranging from 27-32°C which is classified as “caution.”

Heat index is the measure of the temperature that a person feels, which is different from the actual air temperature. It is computed by factoring in the humidity as well as the air temperature.

In areas where a dangerous heat index is observed, heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely, and people may also suffer from heat stroke with continued exposure to the sun.

If anyone is experiencing heat stroke symptoms, the Department of Health advised the public to follow these first aid measures:  

• Move the person to a shaded, cool area, and provide ventilation.
• Remove the person’s outer clothing.
• Apply cold compresses, ice packs, cold water, or cold wet cloth against the skin, especially on the head, face, neck, armpits, wrists, ankles, and groin.
• If the patient is conscious, encourage frequent slow sips of cool water.
• Contact emergency services or bring the person to the hospital immediately.

—Giselle Ombay/KG, GMA Integrated News