PAGASA warns of dangerous heat levels in PH through mid-2027

Parts of the Philippines could experience dangerous to extreme heat index levels from late February to June 2027 as El Niño continues to influence weather conditions, state weather bureau PAGASA said.

Heat index readings ranging from 42 degrees Celsius to 51 degrees Celsius are classified as "danger" levels, while temperatures of 52 degrees Celsius and above fall under the "extreme danger" category.

PAGASA weather forecaster Glaiza Esculiar said elevated temperatures are expected to persist into next year. On Wednesday, heat index levels of 42°C to 43°C were recorded in Dumangas, Iloilo; Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur; La Carlota, Negros Occidental; Cuyo, Palawan; and San Jose, Occidental Mindoro, according to a Philippine News Agency report.

Esculiar warned that prolonged exposure to high temperatures could increase the risk of heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, noting that heat-related illnesses can occur even indoors during physical activity.

She said the northeast monsoon, or amihan season, is still expected during the latter part of the year, but minimum temperatures may not fall as low as those recorded last year due to the effects of El Niño, the report said.