By Emme Rose Santiagudo
The heat index in Western Visayas peaked at 42 degrees Celsius on Sunday, the highest in the region so far, according to Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
The heat index is the temperature as felt by the human body, the weather bureau explained.
According to Charlie Depra of PAGASA Iloilo, heat index ranging from 41 degrees to 54 degrees C already falls in the “danger level” which may cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion and eventually lead to heatstroke with continuous physical activity.
“Ang aton heat index nasa 42°C. So far, diri sa region amo na ni ang pinakataas. From 41 to 54 degrees Celsius heat index nasa danger level na ini possible ang category heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat strokes lalo na kapag naka-expose kita sa masyado ka init,” Depra told Daily Guardian in a phone interview on Sunday.
Depra warned the public to avoid activities with heavy and direct exposure to sunlight, especially from 12 to 3 p.m.
“Sa mga pumuluyo naton, likawan lang naton ang tam-an ka exposure sa init, ilabi na gid halin alas dose asta alas tres sa hapon,” he said.
For the past three days, Depra said the heat index in the region has been fluctuating from 41 to 42 degrees.
According to Depra, the public can expect hotter days ahead with chances of isolated rain showers every afternoon.
“In the coming days, expect naton medyo mainit kag mapa-ang pero maskin mainit, may chances sang isolated rain shows sa hapon,” he said.
