PAGASA warns May temps may hit 42.2°C due to clear days, cloudy nights

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has reported that temperatures across the Philippines have already exceeded initial forecasts for April.

As May approaches, PAGASA warns of a significant possibility that maximum daytime temperatures could reach 42.2°C due to clear skies during the day followed by cloudy evenings, which can trap heat near the ground and raise subsequent day temperatures.

In Isabela, Echague recorded the highest temperature at 40°C on Tuesday, with other areas like Camiling, Tarlac, reaching 39.6°C.

Metro Manila saw its peak temperature of 36.9°C last Tuesday, just below the forecasted maximum of 38°C.

PAGASA also highlighted that heat index levels above 52°C could lead to heat stroke for vulnerable populations including the elderly and those with health conditions.