THE heat index in Cebu reached 40 degrees Celsius on Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2023, which a weather specialist warned that may adversely affect an individual’s health if exposed to direct sunlight for an extended period.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) in Mactan classifed the heat index under extreme condition, which it said may be felt until the weekend.
Ana Dumdum, weather specialist of Pagasa Mactan’s forecasting division, said heat index that ranges from 33 degrees Celsius to 41 degrees Celsius falls under the extreme classification.
The heat index measures a person’s perceived temperature, factoring in both the ambient temperature and humidity. It gauges human discomfort.
Dumdum advised the public to ensure proper ventilation and stay hydrated to avoid potential heat disorders, including sunstroke, muscle cramps, and heat exhaustion.
She urged workers who are required to do fieldwork to avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., as this is when the maximum heat index occurs.
The weather specialist recommended limiting outdoor work time and avoiding caffeinated drinks because they can lead to frequent urination.
Dumdum further said the maximum temperature recorded at 2 p.m. on Wednesday was 30.1 degrees Celsius, with humidity at 68 percent.
She said the conditions would likely remain the same until the end of the week, with a slight increase in the heat index to 41 degrees Celsius on Thursday, Sept. 7.
Dumdum also said that prevailing winds and rains brought by the southwest monsoon (habagat) would continue, typically occurring in the afternoon or evening. Currently, there are no low-pressure areas or typhoons being monitored.
As sudden thunderstorms could still occur, Dumdum urged people to remain prepared and vigilant for possible flash floods. Residents near the mountains should also be watchful for potential landslides, she said.