April 22's heat index could reach 50C: PAGASA
State weather bureau PAGASA urged Filipinos to take care as the heat index on April 22, Saturday, could reach 50C, the would-be highest one since the country's dry season or "summer" began last March.
The forecast, which was issued on April 20 and covers five days or until April 25, is based on PAGASA's headquarters at Science Garden in Quezon City.
Another forecast from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Pasay, meanwhile, showed that the heat index could reach 42C on Saturday.
Forecast from Catbalogan also showed that the heat index could reach 48C that day, while forecasts from Cabanatuan, Catarman, Clark, and Central Luzon State University showed that it could at least surpass 40C.
Saturday's forecast becomes valid starting 8 a.m. until the next one is issued at 5 p.m., during which the actual recorded heat index will be posted the following day.
Heat index is the level of heat or discomfort a person experiences based on the air temperature and relative humidity. Based on PAGASA classification threshold, here's how heat index can affect a person.
27C to 32C – Caution
- Fatigue is possible with prolonged exposure and activity.
- Continuing activity could lead to heat cramps.
32C to 41C – Extreme Caution
- Heat cramps and heat exhaustion are possible.
- Continuing activity could lead to heat stroke.
41C to 54C – Danger
- Heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely.
- Heat stroke is probable with continued exposure.
54C and beyond – Extreme Danger
- Heat stroke is imminent.
To prevent heat-related illnesses, PAGASA urged the pubic to:
- Limit the time spent outdoors.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Avoid tea, coffee, soda, and liquor.
- Wear umbrellas, hats, and sleeved clothing outdoors.
- Schedule heavy-duty activities for the beginning or end of the day when it's cooler.
But if emergency arises, PAGASA said one must observe the following:
- Move the person to a shady spot and lie them down with legs elevated.
- If conscious, have them sip cool water.
- Remove clothing, apply cool water to the skin and provide ventilation.
- Apply ice packs to the armpits, wrists, ankles, and groin.
- Bring to a hospital immediately.