Manila: A huge part of the country continues to experience high heat index levels, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said on Friday.

According to Philippines News Agency, PAGASA Climate Monitoring and Prediction Section chief Ana Liza Solis reported in a Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon interview that heat indices ranging from 42°C to 51°C have been recorded. These high levels are mostly observed in Regions 1 and 2, the Cordillera Administrative Region, Central Luzon, the Cagayan area, as well as in the Visayas and Mindanao.

Solis noted that the high heat index levels are predominantly recorded in coastal areas. The heat index reflects the temperature perceived by the human body when relative humidity combines with the actual air temperature. She highlighted that PAGASA recorded the highest maximum daytime temperature of 40.4°C in Isabela on May 11.

The public could expect high temperatures and heat indices to persist in the coming months. Currently, the country is experiencing the peak of the warm and dry season, and PAGASA is likely to issue an El Ni±o advisory in June. The probability of El Ni±o developing from June to August has increased to over 90 percent.

During El Ni±o, drier-than-usual conditions, dry spells, and drought are anticipated. Despite the humidity, isolated rain showers and thunderstorms may still occur in the coming days. Before El Ni±o sets in, heavy rainfall may be experienced during the southwest monsoon or habagat season.

Solis urged the public to conserve water and monitor official advisories from PAGASA to stay informed and prepared for the weather conditions ahead.