The Philippines is expected to experience hotter temperatures in the coming weeks, but weather officials say this year’s heat will likely be less extreme compared to 2024.
“Although we will still experience intense heat, last year was hotter due to the strong El Niño, which caused multiple record-breaking temperatures and high heat indexes,” Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) spokesperson Analiza Solis said.
“While we do not yet foresee temperatures hitting 40 degrees Celsius this year, isolated instances of high heat index values—potentially reaching 52 degrees—are possible, though not widespread,” she added.
Despite this, the heat index this year could still reach 48 to 50 degrees Celsius. Peak daytime temperatures are also 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 is set to acquire new technology, including a wet bulb temperature meter, to improve heat index forecasting.
“Our heat index is currently based on multiple assumptions regarding perceived heat. This new instrument will provide more accurate assessments of human discomfort by measuring both temperature and humidity,” Solis explained.
“This will be a significant improvement in our forecasting capabilities,” she added.
