PAGASA lists 25 areas in possible dangerous heat index for April 14

Metro Manila, Philippines - Barometers in 25 areas nationwide may reach heat index levels classified as dangerous on Monday, April 14, the weather bureau said.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Pasay City, Isabela State University in the town of Echague, and Sangley Point in Cavite City may register a heat index of 44 degrees Celsius.

Heat index, or “init factor” in the vernacular, is the felt temperature when relative humidity is combined with air temperature. PAGASA classifies a heat index of between 42 to 51 degrees Celsius as “danger” level.

Such a level may cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion, and prolonged exposure to heat may lead to heat stroke, state meteorologists warned.

The bureau said a heat index of 43 degrees Celsius may register in the following areas:

+ Dagupan City, Pangasinan

+ Tuguegarao City, Cagayan

+ Cubi Point, Subic Bay Olongapo City

+ San Ildefonso, Bulacan

+ Ambulong, Tanauan Batangas

+ San Jose, Occidental Mindoro

+ Dipolog, Zamboanga del Norte

It said an “init factor” of 42 degrees Celsius may be registered in:

+ Baler (Radar), Aurora

+ Iba, Zambales

+ CLSU Muñoz, Nueva Ecija

+ TAU Camiling, Tarlac

+ Hacienda Luisita, Tarlac City

+ Puerto Princesa City, Palawan

+ Cuyo, Palawan

+ Virac (Synop) Catanduanes

+ Iloilo City, Iloilo

+ Dumangas, Iloilo

+ La Grancja, La Carlota, Negros Occidental

+ Catarman, Northern Samar

+ Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Sur

+ General Santos City, South Cotabato

+ Butuan City, Agusan del Norte

Dagupan City had the highest heat index so far at 48 degrees Celsius on March 28 and 31.