PAGASA: Max temperature to reach 39.8 degrees in May
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astromomical Services Administration predicts that the coming summer will not be as hot as last year's.
"Although makakaranas pa rin tayo ng mas mainit na temperature, [kung] ihahambing natin last year, mas mainit last year," PAGASA spokesperson Analiza Solis said in a press briefing on March 10.
She added that last year was hotter due to the El Niño phenomenon and the record-breaking temperatures.
Despite this, the heat index this summer could reach 48°C to 50°C.
"'Yung ating temperature na maximum daytime ay pine-predict natin ay posibleng mas mataas pagdating po ng katapusan ng April or yung first week ng May. So doon tayo nakakaranas ng medyo mas maiinit ang temperature natin mga around 39.6°C or 39.8°C," Solis said.
In addition, the heat index could reach 52C, but this won't be widespread like in 2024.
PAGASA forecasted a 37.6°C maximum daytime temperature in Metro Manila in May and 37.4°C in April. The highest forecast range is 39.6°C in Northern Luzon in May.
Heat index is the level of heat or discomfort a person experiences due to the air temperature and relative humidity, or the amount of moisture in the atmosphere, accounting for that “nanlalagkit” feeling.
The maximum daytime temperature, meanwhile, is what PAGASA records or measures using its instruments.
Solis also said that while a heat wave has hit the country, warm and dry season has not officially started.
Additionally, the country can expect six to 13 tropical cyclones from March to August 2025.
Earlier in March, PAGASA's heat index forecast logged heat indexes in the "danger" status on March 3, prompting schools in Metro Manila to suspend classes. The heat index in Quezon City reached 46°C.
PAGASA has released a classification threshold, adapted from the United States' National Weather Service, on how the heat index can affect a person.
27°C to 32°C – Caution
- Fatigue is possible with prolonged exposure and activity.
- Continuing activity could lead to heat cramps.
32°C to 41°C – Extreme Caution
- Heat cramps and heat exhaustion are possible
- Continuing activity could lead to heat stroke.
41°C to 54°C – Danger
- Heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely.
- Heat stroke is probable with continued exposure.
54°C and beyond – Extreme Danger
- Heat stroke is imminent.
In preventing heat-related illnesses (e.g. heat stroke) due to the high heat index, PAGASA has urged Filipinos to limit the time spent outdoors; drink plenty of water; avoid tea, coffee, soda, and liquor; wear umbrellas, hats, and sleeved clothing outdoors; and schedule heavy-duty activities for the beginning or end of the day when it's cooler.
