Residents of Bohol are advised to prepare for prolonged high temperatures, as the heat index is expected to soar up to 45 degrees Celsius and may persist until August, warned Sec. Renato Solidum Jr. of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).
During a press briefing held on April 17, at the Regional Science Technology and Innovation Week, Sec. Solidum highlighted the impact of the El Niño phenomenon, which has exacerbated the heat index due to reduced rainfall.
This has led to lower water levels in local dams, some nearing critical points, and has prompted the suspension of face-to-face classes in Tagbilaran City’s schools.
The heat index, a measure of how hot it feels when relative humidity is factored in with the actual air temperature, has significant implications for human comfort and health.
The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, citing the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), has expressed concerns over El Niño’s potential disruption to agriculture through July.
However, Sec. Solidum indicated that the effects might extend further into August.
In a turn of events, experts predict that the cessation of El Niño by the last quarter of 2024 could give way to a La Niña event, based on historical patterns.
PAGASA’s regional director, Alfredo Quiblat, urged the public to take precautions against the severe heat, warning of risks such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion.
With temperatures potentially ranging between 41 to 45 degrees Celsius, Boholanos are encouraged to stay vigilant and adopt measures to stay cool during this challenging period.