Aparri, Dagupan heat index hits 46 C

MANILA, Philippines — The heat index in Aparri in Cagayan and Dagupan City in Pangasinan reached 46 degrees Celsius on Wednesday, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

The state weather bureau said the highest heat index was recorded at around 2 p.m.

PAGASA said temperatures in Dagupan and Aparri reached 35.5 degrees and 32.8 degrees Celsius, respectively.

Casiguran in Aurora recorded a heat index of 45 degrees Celsius; Catarman in Northern Samar, 43 degrees, and Butuan City in Agusan del Sur, 42 degrees.

The highest heat index recorded from March 1 to April 19 was 47 degrees Celsius in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro and Butuan City in Agusan del Norte.

PAGASA said heat index is the temperature the body feels.

The agency warned the public that heat stroke is probable if a person is exposed to a heat index ranging from 42 to 52 degrees Celsius.

PAGASA advised the public to limit activities outdoors, drink plenty of water and avoid tea, coffee, soda and liquor.

PAGASA declared the start of the warm and dry season on March 21 as it announced the end of the northeast monsoon or amihan.

The dry season is expected to last until May.

PAGASA administrator Vicente Malano said the public should take precautionary measures to minimize heat stress and optimize use of water for personal and domestic consumption.

The weather bureau said one tropical cyclone may be expected this month, two in May and June and and up to three per month from July to September.