Residents across the MIMAROPA region are advised to stay hydrated and limit outdoor exposure as a prevailing Easterly weather system brings high temperatures and rising heat indices.
While much of Mindanao is currently experiencing significant rainfall and potential flash floods due to heavy moisture from the Pacific, Luzon and Palawan province are seeing the opposite trend of clear skies and intense heat.
According to the latest PAGASA weather report, Puerto Princesa City is expected to reach a maximum temperature of 32°C today. However, the actual feel of the heat, known as the heat index, is anticipated to be significantly higher.
In the Kalayaan Islands, temperatures are forecasted to fluctuate between 26°C and 32°C. While the skies remain partly cloudy to cloudy, the chance of widespread rain remains low, limited only to isolated thunderstorms in the late afternoon or evening.
The most pressing concern for the region centers on Coron, Palawan, where the heat index is projected to hit a sweltering 41°C. This falls under the “Extreme Caution” classification.
Weather specialists warn that indices ranging from 33°C to 41°C can lead to heat cramps and heat exhaustion. Prolonged physical activity under these conditions could potentially trigger a heat stroke. The situation is even more critical in other parts of the country, such as Iloilo and Eastern Samar, which have already breached the “Danger” level of 42°C to 44°C.
Health officials and weather experts urge residents to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water even without feeling thirsty. It is also recommended to avoid direct sunlight and limit outdoor activities between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Those who must go outside should use protective gear such as umbrellas, hats, or light long-sleeved clothing.
With no gale warnings currently in effect, small seacraft and fisherfolk in the MIMAROPA coastal areas are cleared to sail, though they are still urged to remain vigilant against sudden sea condition changes during isolated inland thunderstorms. The sun rose at 5:56 AM today and is expected to set at 6:08 PM.
