The country will experience hotter temperatures in the coming weeks, but weather officials predict this year’s heat will be less extreme than in 2024.
“While we will still experience intense heat, last year was hotter due to the strong El Niño, which led to record-breaking temperatures and high heat indexes,” said Analiza Solis, spokesperson for the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
“We do not expect temperatures to reach 40 degrees Celsius this year. However, isolated high heat index values—potentially reaching 52 degrees—are possible, though not widespread,” she added.
Despite this, the heat index could still reach 48 to 50 degrees Celsius. Peak daytime temperatures are projected to rise by late April to early May, potentially hitting 39.6 to 39.8 degrees Celsius.
In response to concerns about climate monitoring and disaster preparedness, Solis said PAGASA is continuing its modernization efforts. The agency will acquire new technology, including a wet bulb temperature meter, to improve heat index forecasting.
“Our current heat index is based on assumptions about perceived heat. This new instrument will provide more accurate assessments of human discomfort by measuring both temperature and humidity,” Solis explained.
“This will significantly improve our forecasting capabilities,” she added.
