As temperatures rise across the country, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) is encouraging Filipinos to make use of its newly launched heat index guide, available on their website until June 30, 2025.
The IHeatMAP provides hourly updates on the heat index, which combines the temperature and humidity to show how hot it really feels. PAGASA Administrator Nathaniel Servando emphasized the guide's importance in preventing heat-related health risks, including heat cramps, heat exhaustion, dehydration, and heatstroke.
A Tool to Prevent Heat-Related Illnesses
“When people know how hot it feels, they can take precautions,” Servando told the Philippine News Agency. He pointed out that once the heat index reaches the danger level (42°C to 51°C), the risk of heat-related illnesses increases, especially for outdoor workers, children, and the elderly.
IHeatMAP: Helping People Make Safer Choices
Launched on April 4, the IHeatMAP offers heat index forecasts across the country, ranging from 27°C to over 52°C. It’s designed to help people plan their daily activities, especially those who work under the sun, like farmers, construction workers, and delivery riders.
“It helps them decide when it's safe to go out,” Servando explained. The tool is also beneficial for families caring for elderly relatives or young children, who are more vulnerable to extreme heat.
A Guide for Communities and Planners
Local government units can use the IHeatMAP to issue public advisories and prepare for emergencies during extreme heat. It’s also a useful resource for sectors like energy and water, which can face increased demand during hot weather.
