LUCENA CITY, Quezon: Imus City in Cavite again experienced dangerous heat conditions after the heat index in the locality reached 46.9 degrees Celsius at 1:30pm on Wednesday (May 13).
The Imus City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO) reported the latest heat index level in a public advisory posted on its Facebook page.
Earlier in the day, the DRRMO recorded a heat index of 43.7°C at around 11:20am and 41.8°C at 9:15am.
On Tuesday, Imus City’s highest heat index for the day was 44.9°C at around 2pm.
Peak heat conditions are usually experienced from midday until late afternoon.
Meanwhile, the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MDRRMC) of Talisay, Batangas, also reported dangerous heat conditions in the town along Taal Lake on Wednesday.
“As per monitoring from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), Talisay, Batangas is currently experiencing a heat index of 44°C, classified under danger condition,” the MDRRMC said in a public advisory posted on social media.
Pagasa explained that the heat index measures the level of discomfort of the human body due to the combined effects of temperature and humidity.
The weather bureau classifies heat index levels into four categories: “caution” (27°C to 32°C), “extreme caution” (33°C to 41°C), “danger” (42°C to 51°C), and “extreme danger” (52°C and above).
Under the “danger” category, heat cramps and heat exhaustion may occur, while prolonged exposure to extreme heat or strenuous physical activity increases the risk of heat stroke.
The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) urged residents in areas experiencing dangerous heat levels to observe safety precautions.
“Extreme heat is here. This isn’t just summer weather — it is a medical risk,” the PRC said in a social media post.
The PRC advised the public to drink water even when not thirsty, stay indoors between 10am and 4pm, and wear lightweight, light-coloured clothing.
Authorities also urged residents to minimize outdoor activities during peak heat hours, avoid leaving children or pets in parked vehicles, and regularly check on vulnerable individuals, especially children, senior citizens, and persons with medical conditions.
The Department of Health (DOH) likewise reminded the public to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, and take preventive measures against heat-related illnesses.
The DOH also advised residents to seek immediate medical attention in suspected cases of heat stroke. - Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN
