Philippines: 3 areas hit 'danger' heat index; schools suspend classes

At least three areas in the Philippines are expected to experience heat indices within PAGASA's 'danger' range of 42 to 51 degrees Celsius on Monday.

The affected regions include Echague, Isabela with a recorded heat index of 42°C; Muñoz, Nueva Ecija at 45°C; and Science Garden Quezon City and Clark Airport, Pampanga both at 46°C.

City governments in Valenzuela, Caloocan, Malabon, Las Piñas, Parañaque, and La Salle Green Hills have suspended face-to-face classes on Monday due to these conditions.

Caloocan will shift to asynchronous or blended learning for public schools from kindergarten to high school; Malabon and Las Piñas for all levels in both public and private schools; Valenzuela for all levels in public schools only, while Parañaque suspended face-to-face classes for all levels in both public and private schools.

To prevent heat-related illnesses, Pagasa advised the public to limit outdoor activities, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, avoid beverages like tea, coffee, soda, and alcohol, use umbrellas, hats, and wear light, long-sleeved clothing when outdoors, and schedule strenuous activities during cooler times of the day.