PAGASA forecasts 'danger level' heat index up to 45°C in Luzon this week

PAGASA forecasts a heat index reaching up to 45 degrees Celsius in several areas of Luzon on Thursday, March 6th and Friday, March 7th, with Dagupan City recording the highest at 45°C.

Specifically, Iba in Zambales, San Jose in Occidental Mindoro, Cuyo in Palawan, Ambulong in Tanauan, Batangas, and other areas are expected to reach a 'danger level' heat index of 42°C on both Thursday and Friday, with continued warnings for Saturday.

The agency also warns that Dagupan City, Iba, Tanauan, San Jose, and Cuyo will experience a dangerous heat index of 42°C on Friday, March 7th, while NAIA Pasay City (40°C) and Science Garden Quezon City (39°C) fall under the 'extreme caution' category.

The Trade Union Congress of the Philippines urged employers to offer breaks to their workers as the heat index reaches dangerous levels in some parts of the country, while Malacañang said it is taking steps to prepare for potential economic impacts.

To mitigate the impact of hot weather, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority offers a 30-minute break to its traffic enforcers and street sweepers, and the Department of Education has started implementing measures like adjusting class schedules to safeguard the health and well-being of students and personnel from the scorching heat.