Danger level heat index expected in 15 areas on May 26

Fifteen areas of the country may experience a heat index at the danger level on Sunday, the state weather bureau PAGASA said Saturday.

According to PAGASA's 5 p.m. forecast, the following areas will have heat indexes ranging from 42°C to 44°C:

44°C:

• Laoag City, llocos Norte
• Aparri, Cagayan
• Butuan City, Agusan del Norte

43°C:

• Sinait, Ilocos Sur
• Bacnotan, La Union
• Maasin, Southern Leyte
• Dipolog, Zamboanga del Norte
• Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Sur
• Cotabato City, Maguindanao

42°C:

• Dagupan City, Pangasinan
• MMSU, Batac, Ilocos Norte
• Iba, Zambales
• Puerto Princesa City, Palawan
• Catbalogan, Samar
• Borongan, Eastern Samar

PAGASA defines heat index as 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 and the air temperature.

In areas with a dangerous heat index, people may experience heat cramps and heat exhaustion, according to PAGASA. Heat stroke is also possible with continued exposure.

PAGASA advises the public to limit outdoor activity, stay hydrated, and wear fresh clothes to avoid heat-related illnesses. —Jiselle Anne Casucian/VBL, GMA Integrated News