MINDANAO — Residents in parts of Mindanao were advised to take extra precautions against extreme heat on Friday, November 6, after the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) recorded heat index forecasts reaching 42°C in Dipolog City and Butuan City.
The two cities entered the Danger category, where prolonged exposure to high temperatures can significantly increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, including heat cramps, heat exhaustion and potentially life-threatening heat stroke.
In the Zamboanga Peninsula (Region IX), Dipolog City in Zamboanga del Norte recorded a forecast heat index of 42°C, while Zamboanga City registered 41°C, placing both areas among the hottest locations covered by the advisory.
In Northern Mindanao (Region X), the forecast heat index reached 39°C at Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Oriental, 34°C in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, and 38°C at the Central Mindanao University (CMU) Agromet station in Musuan, Bukidnon.
Davao City in the Davao Region (Region XI) recorded a forecast heat index of 39°C, while Cotabato City in Maguindanao del Norte registered 40°C.
In SOCCSKSARGEN (Region XII), General Santos City recorded a heat index of 38°C.
Meanwhile, in the Caraga Region (Region XIII), Butuan City in Agusan del Norte reached 42°C, placing it in the Danger category. Surigao City in Surigao del Norte registered 40°C, while Hinatuan in Surigao del Sur recorded 39°C.
The heat index refers to the temperature as perceived by the human body when relative humidity is factored in alongside the actual air temperature. High humidity reduces the body’s ability to cool itself through sweating, making outdoor conditions feel considerably hotter.
PAGASA’s Danger classification covers heat index values of 42°C to 51°C. Under these conditions, continued exposure, particularly during strenuous outdoor activities, can increase the likelihood of heat-related health emergencies.
Residents, particularly outdoor workers, commuters, students, senior citizens and individuals with existing health vulnerabilities, are advised to limit unnecessary outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day.
Authorities also encourage the public to drink water regularly, wear lightweight and breathable clothing, seek shaded or well-ventilated areas, and take frequent breaks when working outdoors. Anyone experiencing signs of heat-related illness should move to a cooler area and seek medical assistance when necessary.
With several monitoring stations recording heat index values close to or within the Danger category, residents across Mindanao are urged to remain alert and prioritize precautionary measures as high temperatures continue to affect the region.