Pagasa: Brace for hotter days in Cebu

Local

CEBU is expected to experience more dry days and rising heat indices in the coming weeks.

Weather authorities warned that temperatures could peak further toward late April and May.

During the MyTV Cebu Openline News forum on April 7,

Weather Specialist Jhomer Eclarino of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) Visayas said current conditions mark only the beginning of the dry and warm season, with hotter days still ahead.

“Kining atong nasinati for the past days… dili pa ni. Mas masinati pa nato ang mas init at the end of this month, and month of May. Ang May ang hottest month,” Eclarino said.

He said temperatures are expected to continue climbing through late April, with May projected to be the hottest month this year.

Rainfall remains unlikely in the coming days, with less than a 50 percent chance of rain, resulting in prolonged dry conditions across Cebu.

“So far, na-record heat index is 37 [degrees Celsius] last April 5. Until this weekend, init ug igang nga panahon with less than 50 percent chance of rain. More dry days. Araw na walay ulan during April,” Eclarino added.

The state weather bureau earlier placed the country under an El Niño Watch on March 25, signaling the possible development of the climate phenomenon in the coming months.

According to Pagasa, there is a 62 percent probability that El Niño will develop between June and August, which could bring hotter‑than‑usual conditions even during the rainy season.

By the latter part of the year, the likelihood is projected to increase to 83 percent.

Eclarino also warned that heat index levels could reach the “danger” category by April and May, increasing the risk of heat‑related illnesses.

Based on historical data, Central Visayas recorded heat indices of up to 42 degrees Celsius in April and as high as 44 degrees Celsius in May last year.

If similar conditions occur, residents may face increased risks of heat stress, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.

“So number one, dapat naay precautionary measures,” Eclarino said.

PAGASA advised the public to limit prolonged exposure to heat, stay hydrated, and take necessary precautions as temperatures continue to rise in the coming weeks.(TGP)