Calamba City sizzles as heat index hits 43°C

LUCENA CITY — Calamba City in Laguna recorded a heat index of 43°C on Tuesday, placing the city under the “danger” category and prompting local authorities to warn residents against prolonged exposure to extreme heat.

The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) said in an advisory that the heat index reached 43°C at 1 p.m., up from 40°C at 11:30 a.m. and 38°C at 10:20 a.m.

Calamba City recorded a heat index of 40°C on Oct. 26, 38°C on Oct. 25 and 24, and 37°C on Oct. 23. The heat index also reached 40°C on Oct. 22, up from 38°C on Oct. 21.

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READ: Extreme heat gripped Calamba City; Talisay, Batangas

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The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration defines the heat index as the temperature the human body feels when air temperature and relative humidity are combined.

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).

Tuesday’s reading placed Calamba in the “danger” category, while its heat index readings over the previous several days remained within the “extreme caution” range.

Heat index levels generally peak from midday to late afternoon, when high temperatures and humidity can increase the risk of heat-related illnesses.

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The city government urged residents to take extra precautions, warning that prolonged exposure to intense heat could cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion, particularly among those exposed to direct sunlight.

The CDRRMO advised residents to drink plenty of water throughout the day and stay hydrated even before they feel thirsty.

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It also urged the public to stay indoors whenever possible and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest hours./coa