The summer heat is reaching dangerous new heights, and the worst may be yet to come. Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) is now warning that heat indices could soar to “extreme danger” levels — a blistering 52°C or more — in the coming days and into May.

“This is serious,” said Ana Liza Solis of PAGASA’s Climatology and Agrometeorology Division. “At that level, heatstroke isn’t just a risk — it’s likely for anyone exposed to the sun too long.”

She added that coastal areas are already feeling the burn, and urban centers like Metro Manila are sweltering under the urban heat island effect, where buildings and concrete turn cities into literal heat traps.

But the real scorcher is still on the horizon.

“By next month, we expect even higher temperatures in Cagayan Valley, Ilocos Region, Central Luzon, and parts of Metro Manila’s neighboring provinces like Batangas and Cavite,” Solis warned.

With the effects of El Niño still lingering, this summer is shaping up to be one of the most punishing in recent memory.

So don’t take this lightly — limit sun exposure, stay hydrated, and take every precaution. Because when the heat strikes this hard, it’s not just uncomfortable — it can be deadly.