The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday, March 3, cautioned the public about heat-related illnesses as the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) forecasted "danger" level heat indices in several areas.
PAGASA stations recorded heat index forecasts of 45°C in Muñoz, Nueva Ecija, and 46°C in Science Garden, Quezon City, and Clark Airport, Pampanga, with extreme temperatures expected to persist until March 4.
Heat index and health risks
The heat index represents how hot it feels when temperature and humidity are combined. PAGASA categorizes:
- 33°C to 41°C as "extreme caution"
- 42°C to 51°C as "danger"
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According to the DOH, prolonged exposure to extreme heat can cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion, with symptoms including fatigue, dizziness, headache, and vomiting. More severe cases may lead to heat stroke, which can be fatal if untreated. Signs of heat stroke include loss of consciousness, confusion, and seizures.
First aid
If someone shows symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, the DOH advises the following steps:
- Move the person to a shady, cool area and ensure proper ventilation.
Remove outer clothing and apply cold compresses, ice packs, or wet cloths to the head, neck, armpits, wrists, and groin.- Encourage slow but frequent sips of cold water if the person is conscious.
- Seek immediate medical assistance or call emergency services.
Preventive measures
The DOH urges the public to:
- Stay hydrated with clean water and avoid iced tea, soda, coffee, or alcohol.
- Limit outdoor activities between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
- Use sun protection, such as hats, umbrellas, and sunblock.
- Wear loose, light-colored clothing to stay cool.
Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa emphasized vigilance, urging Filipinos to monitor PAGASA heat index reports.
"We can avoid heat illnesses. Be cautious, especially when the heat index is 33°C or higher," Herbosa said.
"When it reaches 42°C or more, that’s the ‘danger’ level—drink clean water often."
Several local government units, including Caloocan, Las Piñas, Malabon, and Valenzuela, suspended in-person classes due to the danger-level heat index.
For real-time updates, visit PAGASA and follow official health advisories.
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