Heat Index Reaches 40°C in Parts of Metro Manila This Week

(SPOT.ph) You think it’s hot? It’s about to get even hotter in some parts of Metro Manila, as both Quezon City and Pasay City are forecasted to reach a 40°C  or more heat index in the days leading up to the weekend.

On April 9, we already hit a recorded heat index of 40°C above in both Pasay and Quezon City, with the science stations in each city recording 42°C and 41°C respectively.

Now, the latest forecast from Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration’s (PAGASA) shows that Pasay City is currently experiencing a 40°C heat index, while Quezon City is inching closer to that figure at 39°C heat index as of today, April 11.

And by tomorrow, April 12, the heat index will climb to 41°C in Pasay City and 40°C in Quezon City. 

Heat Index in the Philippines from PAGASA

The rest of the country isn't faring so great, either. Here is PAGASA's forecasted heat index for the rest of the regions:

You might be wondering why data is limited in Metro Manila. This is because Quezon City and Pasay City are part of PAGASA’s three weather stations in the National Capital Region—Science Garden in Quezon City, Port Area in Manila City, and NAIA in Pasay City—where the heat index is gathered from.

Also read: Heat Index Explained: How Your Body Feels Temperature and Humidity

What to know about the heat index

Heat index is the "human discomfort index that gives the apparent temperature or what human perceive or feel as the temperature affecting their body,” according to PAGASA. High air temperature and high humidity give high apparent temperature or high heat index.

Quezon City and Pasay City have been feeling heat in the 38°C to 42°C range since April 7.

A heat index between 32°C and 41°C falls within the "Extreme Caution" zone, which may likely cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion especially if you're walking under the sun. Prolonged activity in this heat could also result in heat stroke.

That said, it might be best to stay indoors for the time being!

Also read: How to Avoid Heatstroke Now That Dry Season Is Here