THE Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) yesterday said five areas will experience high temperatures today as the heat index across the country continues to be at the “danger” level.
In its 5 p.m. bulletin, the weather bureau said Pangasinan, Zambales, Batangas, Occidental Mindoro, and Palawan are forecast to have a heat index of 42 degrees Celsius today.
PAGASA classifies heat index ranging from 42 to 51 degrees Celsius as dangerous. People are likely to experience heat cramps and heat exhaustion, and heat stroke is probable if there is continued exposure.
It will likewise be a hot weekend in Zambales, Bulacan, Occidental Mindoro, and Palawan on Saturday, with the heat index forecast at 42 degrees.
PAGASA said Pangasinan residents felt a heat index of 45 degrees yesterday, while those in Zambales, Batangas, and Occidental Mindoro experienced a heat index of 42 degrees.
The weather is expected to further grow warm and dryer in the coming days, with PAGASA predicting the end of northeast monsoon, or “amihan,” by the second or third of this month, signaling the start of the warm and dry season which is expected to last until May.
Meanwhile, the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) yesterday said it has intensified its preparations to safeguard the welfare of persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) and to maintain the efficient operation of its jail facilities amid PAGASA’s warning of rising temperatures.
BJMP spokesman Superintendent Jayrex Bustinera said the bureau has “proactively implemented” several measures to address the concern.
These are issuance of health advisories, procurement of medicines, deployment of health personnel, improvement of ventilation, water supply contingency plans, and construction of additional jail facilities.
Bustinera said the BJMP has secured, as early as the fourth quarter of last year, “essential medicines” in anticipation of a surge in summer-related illnesses, including skin diseases.
On the deployment of health personnel, Bustinera said: “BJMP health personnel are on heightened alert, with jail nurses on 24/7 standby to respond promptly to health-related emergencies.”
He also said the installation of exhaust fans and ventilation shafts is “being prioritized to improve airflow within jail facilities.”
He added that the BJMP is closely coordinating with fire bureau “to ensure a steady water supply, particularly in areas affected by water interruptions.”
“Measures are also in place to guarantee access to clean and potable water and maintain proper hygiene among PDLs,” he said.
Education Secretary Juan Edgardo Angara earlier said the Department of Education will adjust class schedules to ensure the well-being of learners and teachers amid the threat posed by the rising temperatures.
Angara said he has also instructed DepEd field offices to adopt measures to mitigate the effects of extreme heat, including the conduct of alternative modes of learning, improvement of classroom ventilation, and easy access to hydration stations.
