At least 18 areas across the country are expected to endure “dangerous” levels of heat index on Saturday, 12 April, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

In its 5 AM bulletin, PAGASA weather specialist Grace Castañeda said that the heat index — defined as the apparent temperature or the temperature the human body feels due to humidity — will climb between 42°C to 45°C in several locations. This places them under the “danger” category, where heat cramps and exhaustion are likely, and prolonged exposure may lead to heat stroke.

Topping the list is Sangley Point in Cavite City, forecast to hit 45°C, followed by Dagupan City in Pangasinan at 44°C. Several other areas are projected to reach 42°C to 43°C, including parts of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

Areas under ‘dangerous’ heat index:

• Sangley Point, Cavite City – 45°C

• Dagupan City, Pangasinan – 44°C

• Isabela State University – Echague, Isabela – 43°C

• Tarlac Agricultural University – Camiling, Tarlac – 43°C

• Ambulong, Tanauan, Batangas – 43°C

• Iloilo City, Iloilo – 43°C

• Tuguegarao City, Cagayan – 42°C

• Cubi Port, Subic Bay, Olongapo City – 42°C

• San Ildefonso, Bulacan – 42°C

• Infanta, Quezon – 42°C

• San Jose, Occidental Mindoro – 42°C

• Cuyo, Palawan – 42°C

• Virac, Catanduanes – 42°C

• Masbate City, Masbate – 42°C

• Roxas City, Capiz – 42°C

• Dumangas, Iloilo – 42°C

• Dipolog, Zamboanga del Norte – 42°C

• Metro Manila (NAIA, Pasay and Science Garden, Quezon City) – 41°C to 42°C

PAGASA warned that continued exposure to extreme heat may pose serious health risks such as fatigue, dehydration, heat exhaustion, and potentially heat stroke.

Castañeda advised the public to take precautionary measures, including staying hydrated and limiting outdoor activities.