The scorching heat in Camarines Sur has raised the heat index to 41 degrees Celsius as of March 13, 2024, prompting concerns about its effects on health.

Lalanie Bañas, a street food vendor from San Jose in Pili town, braves the intense heat daily as she sells her goods outside a school. 

She said being outdoors makes her thirsty, dizzy, and even suffocated. 

"Nakaka-uhaw, nakaka hilo, minsan parang sumisikip ang dibdib," Bañas said.

Based on data from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), the heat index in Camarines Sur reached 41 degrees Celsius, classified as extreme caution, with the potential to cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion.

The recorded heat index from the PAGASA Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA) Pili Camarines Sur Station for the past five days ranged from 34 to 41 degrees Celsius.

PAGASA's forecast suggests that the situation will worsen, with temperatures rising further in the coming days, especially as the monsoon break approaches.

"Sa ngayon po, northeast monsoon pa ang nararanasan ng buong Pilipinas po, pero ngayong Marso din magta-transition na po tayo from amihan to habagat so asahan po natin na iinit pa yung panahon lalo na magmo-monsoon break," Ian Neil Nuñez, Officer-in-Charge of PAGASA Camarines Sur, said.

The heat index or perceived temperature is affected by both temperature and water vapor in the air.

According to PAGASA, above-normal temperatures may persist until June 2024.

Authorities advise the public to avoid any outdoor activities exposed to direct sunlight from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to prevent heat-related illnesses.