The heat index in Puerto Princesa City and the island town of Coron is expected to reach high levels today, March 17, according to the state weather bureau.
PAGASA weather specialist Benison Estareja reported that both areas are forecasted to experience a maximum heat index of 41°C, placing them among the hottest areas in the country.
When exposed to this for an extended period of time, he said the risk of heat-related disorders such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke is increased. This level is classified as the “danger” level.
Hot and humid weather persist throughout southern Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao as a result of the persistent easterlies, which are warm winds from the Pacific Ocean.
“Para naman sa ating forecast heat index ngayong araw ng Lunes, for Metro Manila, posibleng pa rin umakyat sa 38 degrees… from 10 a.m hanggang 3 p.m. yan, habang 41 degrees or pinakamataas na heat index [ang] posibleng maitala sa may Coron, Palawan, Puerto Princesa sa may Palawan din, Catbalogan-Samar and G1, Eastern Samar,” Estareja stated.
It is recommended that residents take the appropriate safety measures, such as drinking enough of water, avoiding the outdoors between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., dressing comfortably, and using hats or umbrellas to shield themselves from the sun.
He stated that in spite of the scorching heat, some parts of Palawan may still get thunderstorms and rain showers in the afternoon or evening.
“Sa ating mga kababayan po sa Palawan, asahan pa rin ang bahagyang maulap at madalas maulap na kalangitan pagsapit ng hapon at may mga areas na uulanin bagamat saglit lamang,” he pointed out.
Meanwhile, large areas of Luzon are experiencing colder temperatures and mild to moderate rainfall as the northeast monsoon, often referred to locally as “hanging amihan,” continues to progressively strengthen.
Estareja said the monsoon will bring cloudy skies and sporadic showers to the northern and eastern regions of Luzon, especially Batanes, Cagayan, Isabela, and Aurora.
Due to the easterlies, southern Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao will continue to see hot and humid weather, which will result in isolated thunderstorms in the afternoon and evening.
No low-pressure area or cyclone is anticipated to develop within the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) until the end of the week, according to the most recent satellite data.
