Heat index in Virac, Catanduanes hits danger level 47°C on March 31, 2026

Virac, Catanduanes posted a heat index of 47°C on Tuesday, which is in the danger level, the weather bureau PAGASA said.

PAGASA considers a heat index in the range of 42 to 51ºC to be in the danger level and the public may likely experience heat cramps and heat exhaustion. Heat stroke is probable with continued exposure.

Dagupan City, Pangasinan, and Mambusao, Capiz, both recorded a heat index of 42°C on Tuesday.

Virac is expected to reach a heat index of 45°C on Wednesday, April 1.

PAGASA recently introduced the Interactive Heat Index Mapping and Prediction (iHeatMap), a user-friendly platform for mapping and predicting heat indices across the country that aims to provide timely advisories to the public.

The iHeatMap platform provides hourly forecasts, real-time monitoring, and an app version.

Users can also search for a location to check its heat index and hourly forecast, as well as identify peak dates and times of extreme heat.

The Philippines' dry season began on March 23 and is expected to bring hotter temperatures. —Mariel Celine Serquiña/VBL, GMA News