Heat index soars to 51.7ºC in Dagupan

MANILA, Philippines — The heat index in Dagupan City, Pangasinan reached 51.7 degrees Celsius yesterday, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

Heat index refers to the temperature as felt by the human body. It is usually higher by at least two to three degrees Celsius from the actual air temperature.

The heat index was recorded in Dagupan City at around 2 p.m.

In Metro Manila, the highest heat index was recorded at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Pasay City at 42 degrees Celsius.

PAGASA warned the public against heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

The agency advised the public to drink plenty of water and wear lightweight and light colored clothes.

The country will continue to experience warmer weather until May.

With the heat index expected to increase this summer, the Department of Health (DOH) asked the public to observe caution when swimming in public pools.

In an interview, Health Undersecretary Eric Domingo said dirty water from unmaintained public swimming pools can cause skin diseases and sore eyes.

 “If a person has sore eyes or skin infection and they swim, the bacteria or virus can spread in the pool so it’s possible for more people to be infected and an epidemic is likely to occur in the area,” Domingo said.

He said a person with skin disease should refrain from swimming because the wounds or rashes may be infected. 

The DOH said the administrators of public swimming pools should be on guard against individuals manifesting symptoms of sore eyes and skin infections.  

Domingo asked the public to be wary of summer diseases such as heat stroke, chicken pox, measles, rabies and dengue.  – With Sheila Crisostomo