Calamba City records 38°C heat index

LUCENA CITY – The Calamba City government in Laguna urged residents on Wednesday noon to take extra precautions against extreme heat after the heat index reached 38°C.

According to the latest monitoring, the heat index in Calamba City has reached 38°C, placing it under the “Extreme Caution” category, the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) said in an advisory in Filipino after recording the reading at 10 a.m.

“Heat cramps and heat exhaustion may occur due to the intense heat, especially among those exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods,” the advisory stated.

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The CDRRMO urged residents to drink plenty of water to remain hydrated.

It also advised the public to stay indoors and wear loose, comfortable, and light-colored clothing to help keep their bodies cool.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) defines the heat index as the temperature felt by the human body when air temperature is combined with relative humidity.

The state weather bureau classifies heat index readings into four categories: “Caution” (27°C to 32°C), “Extreme Caution” (33°C to 41°C), “Danger” (42°C to 51°C), and “Extreme Danger” (52°C and above).

Heat index values typically peak from midday through the late afternoon.

A very strong El Niño is likely to emerge between September and December 2026 and may continue until the first half of 2027, the state weather bureau said. /coa