Dangerous heat index logged in 6 areas on Friday

Dangerous heat index logged in 6 areas on Friday

MANILA, Philippines — Six areas across the country experienced dangerous heat index levels on Friday, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa).

The state weather bureau said that a heat index between 42ºC to 51ºC is under the  “danger category.”

It may potentially cause heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke during continued exposure, and other heat related illnesses.

Based on Pagasa’s latest computed heat index as of April 12, 5:00 p.m., the following areas registered a dangerous heat index:

1. Dagupan City, Pangasinan – 43ºC
2. Puerto Princesa, Palawan – 42ºC
3. Aborlan, Palawan – 42ºC
4. Roxas City, Capiz – 43ºC
5. Iloilo City, Iloilo – 43ºC
6. Cotabato City, Maguindanao – 42ºC

Both Dagupan City and Aborlan have consistently recorded dangerous heat indexes in the past week.

Symptoms of heat related illnesses include heavy sweating, exhaustion or fatigue, dizziness or lightheadedness, blacking out or feeling dizzy when standing, weak but fast pulse, nausea and vomiting.

Such effects can be prevented by limiting the time spent outdoors, drinking plenty of water, avoiding tea, coffee, soda and liquor; using umbrellas, hats and sleeved clothing outdoors and scheduling strenuous activities on the cooler periods of the day.

• Move the person to a shady spot and lie him/her down with legs elevated 
• If conscious, have them sip cool water
• Loosen clothing, apply cool water to the skin and provide ventilation
• Apply ice packs to the armpits, wrists, ankles, and groin
• Bring to hospital immediately