Heat index in 2 Visayas areas reaches danger level on April 5 — PAGASA

Two areas in the Visayas recorded danger-level heat index on Sunday, April 5, the state weather bureau PAGASA said.

Based on PAGASA’s five-day computed heat index, Dumangas in Iloilo registered 43°C, while Catarman, Northern Samar recorded 42°C.

The heat index reflects how hot it feels to the human body, combining air temperature and relative humidity. High humidity slows the evaporation of sweat, making it harder for the body to cool itself.

PAGASA's heat index classification defines heat index temperatures ranging from 42°C to 51°C as being in the "danger" level, where "heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely; heat stroke is probable with continued exposure."

Meanwhile, several areas were under the “extreme caution” category (33°C to 41°C), including:

• Itbayat, Batanes — 31°C
• Basco (Radar), Batanes — 32°C
• Baguio City, Benguet — 27°C
• BSU, La Trinidad, Benguet — 27°C
• Tanay, Rizal — 32°C

PAGASA’s forecast for Monday, April 6, showed that Dumangas, Iloilo and Catarman, Northern Samar may again experience danger-level heat index at 42°C. —MCG, GMA News