Metro Manila and several areas across the Philippines are expected to experience danger-level heat index on Tuesday, May 19, the state weather bureau said.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, or Pagasa, the heat index refers to how hot it feels when humidity is added to the actual temperature. Values from 42 to 51 degrees Celsius fall under the danger category, where heat cramps and exhaustion are likely and heat stroke is possible with prolonged exposure.
Pagasa weather specialist Veronica Torres said the heat index in Metro Manila is forecast to range from 40 to 43 degrees Celsius today. Pasay City could reach up to 43 degrees, while Sangley Point in Cavite City may hit 45 degrees, the highest in the country for the day. Areas including San Jose in Occidental Mindoro, Roxas City in Capiz, and Dipolog in Zamboanga del Norte are expected to record 44 degrees.
As of 5 p.m. on Monday, Metro Manila recorded 41 to 43 degrees, with Sangley Point again logging the highest at 45 degrees. Pagasa advised the public to limit outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours, stay hydrated, and avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat.
