ILOCOS REGION RESIDENTS WARNED OF INTENSE HEAT

THE Department of Health (DOH) – Ilocos Region on Wednesday  warned the public against heat stroke as the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) forecasted high temperatures of over 41 degrees Celsius. 

PAGASA described temperatures ranging from 33 to 41 degrees Celsius as “extreme caution” and temperatures from 42 to 51 degrees Celsius as “danger.” 

Regional Director Paula Paz M. Sydiongco said that everyone should avoid prolonged exposure under the sun to avoid heat-related illnesses and suffer heat stroke.

“Pinapayuhan po ang lahat na huwag nang lumabas ng bahay mula 10 a.m. hanggang 4 p.m. upang makaiwas sa sobrang init ng panahon,” she said.

“Maari kayong makaranas ng sunburn, heat cramps, dehydration, heat exhaustion o mawalan ng malay. It is best to stay indoors and drink a lot of fluid to hydrate the body,” Sydiongco added.

The regional health official advised people to wear light colored outer clothing if planning to stay outdoors as it is known to reflect heat, also use umbrella, hats, sunblock and bring water to drink.

“You can also stay in a shaded and cool area to avoid getting skin blisters,”  she said.

PAG-ASA also recorded heat indices of 45 degrees Celsius for Dagupan City on April 1 while Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur with 41 degrees Celsius, and La Union experienced 46 degrees Celsius. 

The heat index is the temperature that the body feels or the apparent temperature that gives the human body comfort. 

“I urge everyone, especially those who are planning to go to the beaches, to take extreme caution as the extreme hot temperatures may continue to ensue this summer,” Sydiongco added. 

Sydiongco also advised residents to regularly monitor temperature reports from the PAGASA and to take preventive measures to avoid experiencing heat-related illnesses.