MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) announced on Saturday that the easterlies currently affecting the Philippines are anticipated to bring cloudy conditions with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms across various parts of Mindanao. Specifically, the Davao Region, Soccsksargen, Zamboanga del Sur, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi are expected to experience these weather conditions.
According to Philippines News Agency, in its 4 a.m. bulletin, PAGASA also noted that Metro Manila and the remainder of the country would see partly cloudy to cloudy skies, accompanied by isolated rain showers or thunderstorms.
The forecast suggests light to moderate winds and slight to moderate sea conditions will prevail throughout the archipelago, providing some relief from the heat in coastal areas.
Meanwhile, a 5 p.m. forecast from Friday by PAGASA highlighted concerns over dangerous heat indexes predicted for six areas on Saturday, where temperatures could feel as hot as 42°C to 43°C due to the combination of air temperature and relative humidity. The areas expected to be most affected include San Jose in Occidental Mindoro, Puerto Princesa City and Aborlan in Palawan, Masbate City in Masbate, Dumangas in Iloilo, and Catarman in Northern Samar. The heat index, often referred to as the "real feel" temperature, measures the perceived temperature to the human body when relative humidity is factored in with the actual air temperature.
Given the forecasted conditions, PAGASA advises the public to limit their time spent outdoors, particularly around noon when the sun's rays are most intense. The agency also recommends drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated and taking measures such as using umbrellas, wearing hats, and dressing in sleeved clothing when outside to protect against the sun.
Temperature ranges for key cities across the Philippines have been provided, with Metro Manila expecting temperatures between 25°C to 35°C, Baguio City from 16°C to 26°C, Laoag City from 26°C to 33°C, Legazpi City from 25°C to 32°C, Metro Cebu from 26°C to 32°C, and Metro Davao also from 26°C to 32°C, reflecting the varied climate conditions across the country.