Olongapo heat index reaches 40.8°C

SAN ANTONIO, Zambales— The heat index in Olongapo City reached 40.8°C on Monday morning, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses, according to real-time monitoring data.

Data from the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office showed a high heat index at the Barretto automatic weather station (AWS) as of 11 a.m., while the reading at the Old Cabalan AWS stood at 39.8 degrees Celsius.

Both readings fell under the “extreme caution” category, where prolonged exposure to heat may cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion and, with continued activity in hot conditions, potentially lead to heat stroke.

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The heat index, commonly referred to as the “feels-like” temperature, measures how hot it feels to the human body when relative humidity is factored in with air temperature.

Residents, particularly those working outdoors, are advised to limit strenuous activities during the hottest hours of the day, stay hydrated, and take frequent breaks in shaded or cool areas to reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses./coa