A sizzling 48°C heat index was recorded in Butuan City, Agusan Del Norte on Friday, April 21, marking the country’s highest heat index so far in 2023.
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Butuan City, Agusan Del Norte on Friday recorded a heat index of 48°C, surpassing the previously-announced all-time high of 47°C in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro on March 25.
The scorching heat was also felt in various parts of the country. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), in its latest bulletin, bared that 13 Philippine areas have also recorded a “dangerous” heat index on Friday.
These areas include Baler, Aurora (43°C); Catarman, Northern Samar (44°C); CLSU Muñoz, Nueva Ecija (42°C); Dagupan City, Pangasinan (43°C); Davao City, Davao Del Sur (42°C); Iba Zambales (43°C); Legazpi, Albay (47°C); Maasin, Southern Leyte (42°C); Masbate City, Masbate (42°C), NAIA Pasay City, Metro Manila (43°C), Tacloban City, Leyte (42°C); Tayabas City, Quezon (42°C); and Virac, Catanduanes (44°C).
Heat index or human discomfort index pertains to the apparent heat that humans perceive. PAGASA earlier explained that a heat index between 42°C and 51°C is considered “dangerous” as it could cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion, adding that continued exposure to the sun at this rate could cause heat stroke.
Filipinos were strongly advised to avoid prolonged exposure to the heat and refrain from doing exhausting activities during the hottest time of the day. According to the state weather bureau, drinking plenty of water may also prevent heat-related illnesses.
The country marked the onset of its warm and dry season on March 21.
