Heat index in 28 areas in the country may reach “danger level” on Monday, according to state weather bureau PAGASA. In its forecast as of 5 p.m.
on Sunday, PAGASA said the following areas may feel heat index of up to 46°C: 46°C 45°C 44°C 43°C 42°C According to PAGASA, heat index is the measure of the temperature that a person feels, which is different from the actual air temperature. It is computed by factoring in the humidity and the air temperature. Heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely in areas experiencing a danger level heat index, which is from 42 to 51°C.
Heat stroke is also possible with continued exposure. The highest recorded heat index reported in the country was 55°C in Guiuan, Eastern Samar on Sunday. In Metro Manila, the highest recorded heat index was 46°C in NAIA, Pasay City on April 24.
On May 4, the Department of Health (DOH) said 77 cases of heat-related illnesses were reported so far this year, including those who may have died due to the hot weather. Around 87% or 67 of these cases were aged 12 to 21 years old. Of the 77 total cases, seven were "reported deaths" although these were "non-conclusive for heat stroke" due to insufficient data.
The DOH said these deaths may be heat-related illnesses, including heat stroke, or heat-influenced, such as underlying high risk for heart attack, precipitated by hot environment that led to elevated blood pressure. If anyone is experiencing heat stroke symptoms, the Department of Health (DOH) advised .