By Leilanie G. Adriano
Staff Reporter
The
Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and
Astronomical Services Administration (PAG-ASA) in Laoag City has warned local
residents in Ilocos Norte to protect themselves from possible heat stroke as
actual temperatures that have been registered are very hot and the body may
even feel hotter than the ambient temperatures.
Engineer Cynthia Iglesias of
the Laoag weather bureau advised Ilocos Norte residents on April 15 that even
though peak temperatures in Laoag City is predicted to remain from a 37.4-38.0
degree Celsius range in the next five days, the “heat index” or the measure of
human discomfort caused by heat in the body could be even hotter.
According to PAG-ASA, full
exposure to the sun can increase the heat index by 90 degree Celsius.
“If possible, we should avoid
going outside from 1 pm to 3 pm,” Iglesias said adding people should drink lots
of water, at least eight glasses a day.
In previous years, most
tricycle drivers in Laoag City were affected the most by heat stroke apparently
due to their full exposure to the sun.
Pag-asa recommends the following tips: if air conditioning is
not available, stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine; wear lightweight
and light colored clothing as light colors will reflect the sun's energy; water
is the safest liquid to drink during heat emergencies; avoid drinking liquor
because it dehydrates the body; eat small meals however eat more often and
avoid eating foods of high in protein which can increase metabolic heat.
Iglesias stressed that people
should take necessary precautions with the increasing heat index as possible
effects on the body include heat cramps, heat exhaustion and muscle spasms.
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