MANILA, May 13 (PNA) — Metro Manila’s temperature soared to 36.4 degrees Celsius on Wednesday afternoon, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said.
In an interview, PAGASA weather forecaster Gener Quitlong saidthe highest temperature in Metro Manila so far this year was recorded at the Science Garden in Quezon City at 36.4 degrees Celsius at 1-2 p.m. Wednesday.
He noted that the latest reading surpassed the previous high of 36.2 degrees Celsius, which was recorded on April 18.
Based on the PAGASA’s climatological record, the hottest temperature in Metro Manila was recorded on May 14, 1987 at 38.5 degrees Celsius.
He said that other parts of Luzon including Metro Manila may experience hotter days due to the ridge of high pressure area which will be the dominant weather systems in the country.
The HPA, which is the opposite of the low pressure area (LPA), is associated with light winds, less rainclouds, and drier air.
The presence of HPA will bring high temperatures and good weather conditions to the country in the coming days as he advised people to wear lightweight and light-colored clothing, and drink plenty of water.
PAGASA said residents of places directly hit by the heat of the sun, without trees, and surrounded by concrete roads would feel much hotter.
Despite a warmer weather, the occurrence of isolated rains will still prevail due to localized thunderstorms expect mostly in the afternoon or evening.
PAGASA explained that the convective activity brought about by intense heat triggers the formation of more cumulonimbus clouds or dark clouds associated with thunderstorms that bring rains.
But so far, the hottest temperature in the country for this year was recorded in Mindanao in General Santos at 38.4 degrees Celsius on April 6 and also in Tuguegarao at 38.4 degrees Celsius recorded last May 2 and in Visayas, the province of Cebu recorded 35.5 degrees Celsius last May 10.
The hottest temperature ever recorded in the country was in Tuguegarao, Cagayan at 42.2 degrees Celsius on May 11, 1969.
To avoid heat exhaustion, people should stay indoors as much as possible, according to a PAGASA advisory.
People are also advised to wear clothing made of light materials with light colors, to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and to avoid eating food high in protein, which can increase body heat.
However, he noted that passing rains, especially in the afternoon or evening, is still possible due to localized thunderstorms or convections due to easterlies.
But so far, the hottest temperature in the country for this year was recorded in Tuguegarao at 39 degrees Celsius recorded on April 25.
The hottest temperature ever recorded in the country was in Tuguegarao, Cagayan at 42.2 degrees Celsius on May 11, 1969. (PNA)