19 areas breach danger category heat index on Maundy Thursday

Nineteen areas across the country recorded "danger category" heat indices on Maundy Thursday, April 17, according to PAGASA.

The highest heat indices were recorded in Echague, Isabela and Roxas City, Capiz at 44ºC.

Seventeen additional areas, predominantly in Luzon, also recorded dangerous heat index levels.

PAGASA forecasts that nearly 50 areas may experience heat indices of at least 40°C on Good Friday, April 18, with Pasay City and 15 other locations possibly reaching dangerous levels.

Indices ranging from 42ºC to 51ºC are tagged as "danger category" due to increased risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion and even heat stroke.

The weather bureau advises limiting outdoor activities from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., staying hydrated, taking breaks in shaded areas, and wearing light clothing to mitigate the effects of the heat.

The peak of the warm and dry season is expected to occur from the latter half of April through the first two weeks of May.