THE intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ) continues to impact large areas of the country on Monday, bringing widespread rain to the Visayas, Palawan, and Mindanao, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa).
Cloud clusters forming along the ITCZ are being closely monitored, particularly near the Visayas, with a possible development into a low-pressure area in the coming hours or days, the agency added.
Meanwhile, isolated rain showers or thunderstorms are expected over the rest of Visayas, Mindanao, and Mimaropa. The easterlies will also bring similar weather conditions to Metro Manila and the rest of Luzon.
Moderate to strong winds and moderate to rough seas are forecast over extreme northern Luzon, while other parts of the country will have light to moderate winds with slight to moderate seas.
Heat Index to Soar Up to 46°C
PAGASA also reported dangerously high heat index levels in several areas, with Dagupan City in Pangasinan expected to hit a peak of 46°C, and Aparri, Cagayan at 45°C.
A heat index of 44°C is forecast in Laoag City, Tuguegarao City, Sangley Point (Cavite City), Masbate City, and CBSUA-Pili in Camarines Sur.
Several other areas may reach 43°C, including:
- Batac, Ilocos Norte (MMSU)
- Bacnotan, La Union
- ISU Echague, Isabela
- Baler (Aurora Radar Station)
- Cubi Point, Olongapo City
- Tarlac Agricultural University
- Infanta, Quezon
- Iloilo City
- Dumangas, Iloilo
Areas expecting a 42°C heat index include:
- NAIA
- Science Garden, Quezon City
- Sinait, Ilocos Sur
- Casiguran, Aurora
- Iba, Zambales
- San Ildefonso, Bulacan
- Alabat, Quezon
- Catbalogan, Western Samar
- Guiuan, Eastern Samar
The heat index measures how hot it feels to the human body when humidity is combined with actual air temperature. PAGASA warns that a heat index between 42°C and 51°C falls under the “danger” category, which poses risks of heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke with prolonged exposure.
The public is advised to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during peak hours, and take necessary precautions to stay safe amid extreme weather conditions.
