PAGASA warns of 'dangerous' heat index in 11 areas on Black Saturday

MANILA, Philippines — PAGASA warned of heat indexes reaching "danger levels" in almost a dozen areas in the Philippines on Black Saturday, with continued exposure possibly causing heat cramps, heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

On Friday, the state weather bureau issued its highest heat index forecast yet, indicating scorching temperatures exceeding 44°C in the hottest areas:

"Heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely; heat stroke is probable with continued exposure," said PAGASA on Good Friday while referring to heat indexes between 42°C to 51°C.

Heat index is used to measure the heat felt by the human body (apparent temperature), which differs from air temperature.

Relative humidity is taken into consideration when it comes to measuring heat index. According to PAGASA's effect-based classification, indexes reaching 52°C (extreme danger) could mean imminent heat stroke.

Extreme danger heat index is currently seen occuring in May, according to the state weather bureau.

PAGASA releases its heat index monitoring and forecast information during the very warm months of March to May.

Meteorologists earlier this March announced the termination of aAmihan" or the northeast monsoon season, marking the start of the country's warm and dry season.