Heat Index Alert: Butuan Hits 48°C as 44 PH Areas Reach Danger Zone
PAGASA recorded a 48°C heat index in Butuan City as 44 areas nationwide reached danger-level readings on May 12.
Butuan City in Agusan del Norte recorded the country’s highest heat index on Tuesday, May 12, hitting a scorching 48°C, according to PAGASA.
The heat index measures how hot it feels to the human body when air temperature and humidity are combined. PAGASA classifies readings from 42°C to 51°C as “danger” level because they raise the risk of heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and possible heat stroke.
Inquirer reported that 44 areas nationwide reached danger-level heat index readings on May 12. Aside from Butuan, Tuguegarao City in Cagayan and Coron in Palawan also posted extreme readings at 46°C.
Metro Manila was not spared, with NAIA in Pasay City recording 42°C. Other danger-level areas included Dagupan, Iba, Clark, Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, Cavite, Batangas, several Palawan stations, parts of Bicol, Iloilo, Cebu, Samar, Leyte, Zamboanga, Davao, and Surigao.
For Pinoys working outdoors, commuting, or caring for children and seniors, the warning is simple: hydrate, avoid long exposure during peak heat, and watch for signs of heat stress. Source: Inquirer News
