PAGASA: Dangerous heat index seen to be felt in 15 areas on Maundy Thursday

Fifteen areas across the country may experience a dangerous level of heat index on Maundy Thursday, according to state weather bureau PAGASA.

As of Wednesday, 5 p.m., PAGASA forecast that the following areas may have to bear a high heat index ranging from 42 to 51 degrees Celsius, which was tagged under the “danger” effect-based classification:

• Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Pasay City- 42°C
• Iba, Zambales- 42°C
• Cubi Point in Subic Bay, Olongapo City- 42°C
• Sangley Point, Cavite- 43°C
• Ambulong in Tanauan, Batangas- 42°C
• Coron, Palawan- 43°C
• San Jose, Occidental Mindoro- 43°C
• Puerto Princesa City, Palawan- 45°C
• Aborlan, Palawan- 45°C
• Masbate City, Masbate- 42°C
• Central Bicol State University of Agriculture in Pili, Camarines Sur- 44°C
• Roxas City, Capiz- 44°C
• Iloilo City, Iloilo- 43°C
• Dumangas, Iloilo - 42°C
• Cotabato City, Maguindanao - 42°C

In a post on its social media account, the Makati City government said a "dangerous" heat index level of 43.5 degrees Celsius was observed in the city at 2:15 p.m..

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.

PAGASA warned that prolonged exposure in the above mentioned areas may result in heat stroke.

Symptoms of heat-related illnesses include sweating heavily, exhaustion or fatigue, dizziness or lightheadedness, blacking out or feeling dizzy when standing, weak but fast pulse, feeling nauseous, and vomiting.

To avoid such, PAGASA advised people to limit their time spent outdoors, drink lots of water, and avoid tea, coffee, soda, and liquor.

They should also use umbrellas, hats, and sleeved clothing outdoors, and schedule their heavy-duty activities in the morning or at night when it is cooler.

Should there be an emergency due to extreme heat, PAGASA said the person should be moved to a shady spot and lie with legs elevated. If s/he is conscious, cool water must be sipped.

Clothing should also be removed and cool water should be applied on the skin to provide ventilation. Ice packs applied on the armpits, wrists, ankles, and groin could also help.

The victim should also be brought immediately to a nearby hospital.—AOL, GMA Integrated News