The Climate Change Commission (CCC) called on the public to take extra precautions as heat index levels in several parts of the country have reached the “danger” category during the peak of the summer season.

In a social media post, the CCC said data from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) showed that heat index values between 33 and 41 degrees Celsius fall under “extreme caution” which may cause heat cramps at heat exhaustion; 42 to 51 degrees Celsius under “danger level” and above 51 degrees Celsius as “extreme danger” which could lead to heat stroke.

Heat index is the temperature felt by the human body when relative humidity combines with actual air temperature.

For its heat index report yesterday, Pagasa recorded the highest observed heat index at 42 degrees Celsius in several locations, including Dumangas in Iloilo.

In the Visayas, Iloilo City, Iloilo; Catbalogan, Western Samar; and Borongan, Eastern Samar also recorded a 40 degrees Celsius heat index.

Roxas City, Capiz; La Granja and La Carlota, Negros Occidental recorded 39 degrees Celsius.

Meanwhile, Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental and Mactan, Cebu are at 36 degrees Celsius.

The CCC reminded the public to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat, and limit strenuous outdoor activities, especially during midday hours.

It also urged the public to use protective measures to avoid direct sunlight, such as umbrellas, hats, and sunblock, when going outdoors.

The public is also advised to remain vigilant and monitor official advisories from the weather bureau Pagasa, the Department of Health, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, the Philippine Red Cross, and the Bureau of Fire Protection.

Emergency hotlines also remain available, including National Emergency Hotline 911, Pagasa (02) 824-0800, Philippine Red Cross (143), Bureau of Fire Protection (02) 8426-0231, and the NDRRMC (02) 8911-5061 to 65 local 100. (PNA)