A heat index of 44°C is forecasted for the cities of Dagupan in Pangasinan and Virac in Catanduanes on Thursday, according to PAGASA’s heat index advisory.

Aside from Catanduanes and Pangasinan, a heat index of 42°C to 43°C is also expected in several areas, including Hacienda Luisita in Tarlac City, Echague in Isabela, Sangley Point in Cavite, and Roxas City in Capiz.

In Metro Manila, the heat index is forecasted to reach 41°C.

In a televised interview, PAGASA Weather Forecaster Lorie Dela Cruz said that the dry season usually peaks in the first two weeks of May, emphasizing that current heat levels could worsen in the coming month.

“A heat index of 40°C or higher falls under the ‘extreme caution’ level, which could lead to heat exhaustion and heat stress with prolonged exposure,” Dela Cruz said.

Based on PAGASA’s 24-hour forecast, the easterlies — warm winds coming from the Pacific Ocean — are causing the humid temperatures across most parts of the country.

Despite the intense daytime heat, isolated rain showers and thunderstorms are still possible, especially from late afternoon to early evening.

No tropical cyclone is expected to form within the Philippine Area of Responsibility until 20 April, as state meteorologists predict only zero to one tropical cyclone for the month of April.