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MANILA, Philippines – For three straight days, the municipality of Guiuan in Eastern Samar province recorded extremely dangerous heat index levels.
On Sunday, May 26, Guiuan’s heat index soared to 55°C, the highest that the weather bureau has recorded so far for 2024.
That was followed by 54°C on Monday, May 27, then 55°C again on Tuesday, May 28.
The next two days look set to be scorching hot as well, with the forecast showing 53°C possible in Guiuan for both Wednesday, May 29, and Thursday, May 30.
Before Guiuan’s sizzling streak, the highest heat index for the year was 53°C, recorded in Iba, Zambales, on April 28.
The heat index, also called the feels-like temperature since it is the temperature perceived by the body, is measured using air temperature and relative humidity.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration classifies the figures based on potential effects on people’s health:
- 27°C to 32°C – Caution
- Fatigue is possible with prolonged exposure and activity.
- Continuing activity could lead to heat cramps.
- 33°C to 41°C – Extreme Caution
- Heat cramps and heat exhaustion are possible.
- Continuing activity could lead to heat stroke.
- 42°C to 51°C – Danger
- Heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely.
- Heat stroke is probable with continued exposure.
- 52°C and above – Extreme Danger
- Heat stroke is imminent.
The excessive heat during the warm and dry season prompted the suspension of face-to-face classes in thousands of schools and triggered calls for the protection of workers.
In response to the situation in schools, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recently approved a gradual return to the June-March academic calendar. – Rappler.com
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