The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has warned the public against heat-related illnesses after Cotabato City experienced a high heat index of 40 degrees Celsius a day before the state weather bureau announced the end of La Niña.

Several residents used umbrellas to shield themselves from the heat while others drank plenty of water and turned on their electric fans to cool down.

PAGASA said the heat index or the temperature felt by the human body reached 40 degrees Celsius on Sunday, March 8, 2026.

The state weather bureau added that strong easterlies brought hot weather in Cotabato City and other areas in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

The heat index dropped to 37 degrees Celsius in Cotabato City, as of Wednesday, March 11, 2026.

However, it still falls under the “Extreme caution” category, which ranges from 33 degrees Celsius to 41 degrees Celsius.

Under this category, people - especially vulnerable sectors such as the elderly and children - may experience heat cramps or heat exhaustion, and prolonged exposure could lead to heat stroke.

PAGASA advised the public to limit outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day, drink plenty of water, use umbrellas or hats for protection, wear loose clothing, and schedule heavy activities during cooler times of the day.

“Mag-iwas tayo or limitahan natin ang oras ng paglabas. Uminom tayo ng maraming tubig, gumamit tayo ng payong, sombrero, magsuot tayo ng maluwang (na damit), isagawa ang mabigat na gawain sa malalamig na oras na araw,” DOST-PAGASA Cotabato City Chief Meteorological Officer, Gleziel May Pedrico, said.