Heat index reaches 'danger' level in Coron, Dipolog, 3 others on Nov. 4

PAGASA recorded five areas that reached 42°C to 43°C on Wednesday, which the state weather bureau classified as a “danger” level.

The state weather bureau said that based on its computed heat index, Coron, Palawan and Butuan City, Agusan del Norte reached a heat index of 43°C.

Meanwhile, Iloilo City and Dumangas, both in the province of Iloilo, had a heat index of 42°C, as well as Dipolog, Zamboanga del Sur.

According to PAGASA’s heat index chart, the “danger” level is the second highest warning, preceding “extreme danger”. An area with a “danger” warning if they have a heat index of 42°C to 51°C.

Residents from areas under “danger” are cautioned of possible heat cramps and heat exhaustion.

Continued activities under this heat index could suffer a heat stroke.

In its heat index forecast, PAGASA also cautioned the following areas of a “danger” level on Thursday:

Coron, Palawan

Dipolog, Zamboanga del Sur

Iloilo City, Iloilo

Butuan City, Agusan del Norte

PAGASA warned that heat index values ranging from 42 to 51 degrees Celsius, classified as the danger level, could cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion, while prolonged exposure could result in heat stroke.

Heat stroke is likely when the heat index reaches the "extreme danger" level of 52 degrees Celsius or higher.

The heat index refers to the temperature felt by the human body when relative humidity is factored in with the actual air temperature.

High humidity slows the evaporation of sweat, making it harder for the body to cool itself.

PAGASA advised the public to limit outdoor activities and use umbrellas or caps when going outside. It also recommended drinking plenty of water and avoiding beverages such as tea, coffee, alcohol, and soft drinks.

PAGASA typically releases heat index data during the dry season, from March until the onset of the rainy season.. —Jean Mangaluz/RF, GMA News