Highest heat index recorded

HEAT index in Baguio City reaches 29 degrees Celsius since April 17 and may even get higher with the El Niño phenomenon.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) in Baguio City recorded the city’s temperature at 26 degrees Celsius on April 18 but the prevailing heat index was 29 degrees Celsius.

PAGASA-Baguio Weather Observer Wilson Lucando explained heat index as the measure of how hot it really feels when relative humidity is factored in with the actual air temperature.

Lucando said although the highest temperature recorded in Baguio was at 28.2 degree Celsius on March 14, the heat index was only at 26 due to cooler air circulation following the tail-end of northeast monsoon or Hanging Amihan in February.

Heat index is characterized by very hot and dry air, Lucando said. A heat index between 41 to 54 degrees is considered dangerous and likely to cause cramps, exhaustion and even heat stroke after continuous activity.

The weather observer forecast temperature in the coming weeks at an average of 28 degrees to 29 degrees Celsius where heat index may reach 30.

Despite soaring temperatures, the weather bureau said isolated rain showers and thunderstorms may still occur due to the easterly winds that lead to the formation of cumulus and nimbus clouds collecting vapor over bodies of water.

“We have a prevailing abnormal weather so we advise the public to protect themselves from direct sunlight and avoid dehydration,” Lucando said.

Baguio’s hottest temperature was recorded in 1963 at 30.4 degrees Celsius, Lucando said.

MORE TRAFFIC AHEAD. Roadworks continue to torment commuters and motorists alike as portion of Magsaysay Ave. near the city limit are being prepped for a major rip rap improvement.