Dagupan City records highest heat index so far in 2021 at 51°C

The heat index in Dagupan City, Pangasinan, reached 51 degrees Celsius (ºC) at 2 pm Saturday, May 8 – the highest in the country so far for 2021.

Heat index is what people “perceive or feel as the temperature affecting their body,” according to state weather bureau Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

The heat index in Dagupan City reaches 51°C on Saturday, May 8, 2021, the highest so far in the Philippines for the year.

Here's what heat index means, how it affects people, and what people can do to protect themselves: https://t.co/zmg2cyVjv9 pic.twitter.com/nIib80u8R7

— Rappler (@rapplerdotcom) May 8, 2021

PAGASA reported intense heat in the city for the past five days.

According to the city government’s public information office, the city experienced a heat index of 49ºC on Thursday, April 6.

Other areas that experienced intense heat on Saturday included Ambulong in Batangas, Cotabato City in Maguindanao, Pasay City, and Sangley Point in Cavite – all having heat indexes of 44ºC, according to data from PAGASA.

The Dagupan City government reminded residents to stay indoors, wear lightweight clothing, and drink plenty of water. – Michelle Abad/Rappler.com