Coron in Palawan and Dipolog in Zamboanga del Norte are forecast to record the highest heat index at 43°C on Thursday, Nov. 5, according to the state weather bureau.
This is based on the latest heat index forecast issued by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa). Both areas are under the dangerous category, where the heat index ranges from 42°C to 51°C.
These areas are also placed under the same category, with the heat index expected to reach 42°C: Iloilo City, Iloilo; Dumangas, Iloilo; and Butuan, Agusan del Norte.
Pagasa warned that dangerous heat indices can cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion, while continued exposure to the sun can lead to heat stroke.
It encouraged the public to limit outdoor activities if possible, drink plenty of water, use umbrellas, and wear comfortable clothing with sleeves.
Pagasa earlier said that a ‘very strong El Niño’ is present in the tropical Pacific and is expected to continue until the first half of 2027.
During a congressional briefing on Wednesday, Pagasa Climate Monitoring Chief Ana Liza Solis said that ‘there will be prolonged dry spells that will lead to meteorological drought conditions, and even forms of drought, such as agricultural and hydrological drought.’