At least seven areas in the country are expected to experience a dangerous level of heat index on Thursday, April 4, according to the state weather bureau PAGASA.
In its 5 PM advisory on Wednesday, PAGASA said the Catarman area in Northern Samar may experience a heat index of 43ºC.
Meanwhile, the following areas are projected to peak at a heat index of 42°C:
- Dagupan City, Pangasinan
- Sangley Point, Cavite
- Puerto Princesa City, Palawan
- Central Bicol State University of Agriculture in Pili, Camarines Sur
- Dumangas, Iloilo
- Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Sur
Baguio City and Benguet State University in La Trinidad, Benguet, on the other hand, have the lowest expected heat index of 27 °C and 28 °C, respectively.
PAGASA said the heat index is the human discomfort index that gives the "apparent" temperature, or what humans perceive or feel as the temperature affecting their body.
The effect-based danger classification ranges from 42°C to 51°C, and its effects on the body are that heat cramps and exhaustion are likely, and heat stroke is probable with continued exposure.
Symptoms of heat-related illnesses include sweating heavily, exhaustion or fatigue, dizziness, blacking out, weak but fast pulse, nausea, and vomiting
