‘Init factor’ eases to 44.5°C in Dagupan after hitting 48.2°C on Wednesday

The heat index in Dagupan, Pangasinan reached a whopping 48.2 degrees Celsius on Wednesday before easing to a still-high 44.5°C on Thursday as the dry season continues.

"Sa datos ng PAGASA, pumalo sa 48.2°C ang init factor sa Dagupan, Pangasinan kahapon ng hapon," GMA resident meteorologist Nathaniel "Mang Tani" Cruz said in a report in GMA's 24 Oras, adding that the heat index in the city then slightly went down to 44.5°C the next day.

The heat index is the measure of the temperature that a person feels, in contrast to the actual air temperature.

It is computed by factoring in the humidity as well as the air temperature, and essentially measures "human discomfort." It is therefore the "apparent temperature" felt by the human body.

According to data from Metraweather, the "init factor" in Dagupan is expected to reach 41°C on Friday.

Tuguegarao and Cabanatuan, on the other hand, will likely experience 40°C.

Catbalogan and Tagbilaran in Visayas, and General Santos in Mindanao will have an init factor of 39°C, while in Cotabato it will reach 42°C.

The temperature in Metro Manila may reach 37°C on Friday. Partly cloudy skies are likely but the chance of having rains is low.

'Danger'

PAGASA classifies a heat index from 41°C to 54°C as being in the "Danger" range. 

"Heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely; heat stroke is probable with continued activity," it says on its heat index page.

READ: Protect yourself from heat stroke

PAGASA's tips on lowering one's heat index include:

• Stay indoors as much as possible. If air conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine.
• Wear lightweight and light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect the sun's energy.
• Drink plenty of water regularly. The body needs water to keep cool.
• Water is the safest liquid to drink during heat emergencies. Avoid drinking liquor because it dehydrates the body.
• Eat small meals, however, eat more often. Avoid eating foods high in protein which can increase metabolic heat.

— Dona Magsino/BM, GMA News