High temperatures have prompted local government units (LGUs) to suspend face-to-face classes in parts of Central Luzon.
This, as the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), noted a dangerous heat index forecast of 42ºC (Degrees Celsius) in five areas of the country today, April 3, 2024.
Pagasa has identified the five areas as Guiuan, Eastern Samar; Catarman, Northern Samar; Roxas, Iloilo; CBSUA-Pili, Camarines Sur; and Aparri, Cagayan. These areas are expected to have a peak heat index of 42ºC.
The heat index is “a measure of the contribution that high humidity makes with abnormally high temperatures in reducing the body’s ability to cool itself,” according to Pagasa.
In Central Luzon, LGUs in the provinces of Bulacan, Pampanga and Tarlac, have suspended face-to-face classes in favor of online classes amid the increasing heat index that might affect the health of residents.
Among the towns and cities that had suspended classes in Bulacan — Calumpit, Malolos City, and Paombong (12nn onwards); in Pampanga – Angeles City, City of San Fernando, Bacolor, Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU) in Magalang, Arayat, Mabalacat City, Floridablanca, Mexico, Sta Ana, Macabebe, and Masantol; in Tarlac – Anao, Bamban, Camiling, Capas, Concepcion, Gerona, La Paz, Mayantoc, Paniqui, Pura, San Clemente, San Jose, San Manuel, Santa Ignacia, and Victoria
Pagasa said heat index exceeding 42ºC and reaching 51ºC constitues “danger category,” and may lead to heat-related ailments such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
The public is advised to limit outdoor activities; drinking plenty of water; avoiding tea, coffee, soda and liquor, using umbrellas, hats and sleeved clothing outdoors.
Prolonged exposure in the outdoor may result to heavy sweating, exhaustion or fatigue, dizziness or lightheadedness, blacking out, weak but fast pulse, nausea and vomiting.