Heat index in Pasay reaches 40.8°C, hottest in NCR — PAGASA

The heat index in the National Capital Region peaked at 40.8 degrees Celsius this weekend, according to PAGASA on Sunday.

Vonne Aquino's report in GMA's 24 Oras Weekend cited data from the state weather bureau showing that its NAIA station in Pasay recorded the 40.8°C "init factor" on Saturday, the highest in the region since the dry season kicked in.

The heat index, or "init factor," is different from air temperature. The temperature in the National Capital Region hit its highest numbers for the year so far, 35.4°C, at 3:50 p.m. on Saturday, recorded at the Science Garden in Quezon City.

The heat index measures human discomfort, in contrast to the actual air temperature, and is computed by factoring in the humidity as well as other conditions.

The Department of Health warned that a heat index this high may lead to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.

It advised the public to drink lots of water and avoid prolonged exposure under the sun.

Due to the sweltering weather, some residents of Baseco Compound in Tondo swam in the nearby waters of Manila Bay despite the prohibition of authorities.

High fecal coliform levels were found by experts in Manila Bay. The Manila Health Department earlier warned that people may get skin diseases, gastroenteritis, typhoid fever, and hepatitis A from swimming in and ingesting water from Manila Bay.

"Masarap naman para mawala 'yung init sa katawan. Sinasabi nila bawal pero napipilitan pa rin maligo kahit bawal dahil mainit ang panahon ngayon eh," a resident said. — Dona Magsino/BM, GMA News