Pagasa warns 11 areas may hit dangerous heat indices on Labor Day, with Dagupan City expected to reach a scorching 43°C. (Image by Pixabay)
MANILA —The Philippine weather bureau warned on Thursday that at least 11 areas across the country were expected to experience “danger” level heat indices on Labor Day, as sweltering temperatures continued to grip much of the archipelago.
Pagasa said the heat index — a measure of how hot it feels when humidity combines with air temperature — would range between 42°C and 43°C in several provinces and cities on Friday.
Pagasa classifies heat indices between 42ºC and 51ºC under the “danger” category, conditions that increase the risk of heat cramps and heat exhaustion and may lead to heat stroke after prolonged exposure.
Pagasa’s 5 p.m. bulletin issued on Thursday expects Dagupan City in Pangasinan to register the highest heat index nationwide at 43ºC.
Forecasters expected Sangley Point in Cavite City to reach 42ºC, marking its ninth straight day under ‘danger’ level conditions since April 23.
Other areas forecast to experience dangerous heat levels on Labor Day included Bacnotan in La Union, Tuguegarao City in Cagayan, Iba in Zambales, the Central Luzon State University station in Muñoz, Nueva Ecija, and Cubi Point in Subic Bay, Olongapo City.
Pagasa also warned of high heat indices in Coron, Palawan; San Jose, Occidental Mindoro; Iloilo City; and Dumangas, Iloilo. The state weather bureau expects all these areas to record 42ºC.
The extreme heat comes as millions of Filipinos prepare to observe Labor Day, a national holiday traditionally marked by rallies, outdoor gatherings and family activities. Health officials have repeatedly advised the public to limit prolonged exposure to the sun, drink water frequently and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours.
The Philippines has endured weeks of intense heat in recent months, with schools in several areas shifting to remote learning and local governments shortening class hours to protect students and workers from heat-related illnesses.
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