MASBATE CITY, Masbate (PIA) — The state weather bureau expected heat indices to reach dangerous levels in four areas of Bicol region tomorrow, Friday, May 12.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration’s (Pagasa) two-day forecast published Wednesday, the “real feel” apparent temperatures in Bicol on Friday could rise to:
· 44 degrees Celsius in Virac, Catanduanes;
· 43°C in Legazpi City, Albay;
· 42°C in Masbate City, Masbate; and
· 42°C in Daet, Camarines Norte
These temperatures fall under the weather bureau’s “danger” heat index classification. Under heat indices of 42-51°C, “heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely while heat stroke is probable with continued exposure,” Pagasa stated.
Pagasa’s “Previous Five-Day Actual Heat Index and Forecasts for the Next Two Days” published Wednesday.
In Masbate City, the blistering heat was experienced each day, back to back, for six days in a row beginning May 5, with heat index ranging from 40°C to 43°C.
The soaring temperatures prompted schools in the city to suspend in-person classes and shifted to distance learning modality.
Some self-employed people scheduled their heavy-duty activities for the beginning or end of the day, when it's cooler.
Others were seen protecting themselves from heat cramps, heat exhaustion, sunburn, rash, and potentially fatal heatstroke by heeding the advice of health authorities.
Staying indoor, drinking plenty of water, avoiding tea, coffee, soda, and alcohol, and wearing a wide-brimmed hat and long- sleeved clothing when outdoors, were some of the tips given by the Department of Health and rural health units.
