Cagayan de oro: A surge in the heat index prompted the city government here and the Misamis Oriental provincial government to suspend classes in public schools on Thursday and Friday.

According to Philippines News Agency, in Misamis Oriental, 24 of the 25 local government units (LGUs) have suspended classes in public schools starting Thursday through Friday. The LGUs include Naawan, Jasaan, Manticao, Kinoguitan (Aug.13 only), Alubijid, Opol, El Salvador City, Initao, Tagoloan, Gitagum, Lagonglong, Laguindingan, Lugait, Binuangan, Medina, Salay (Aug.13 only), Magsaysay, Balingoan, Gingoog City, Libertad, Sugbongcogon, Talisayan, Balingasag (Aug.13 only) and Villanueva.

Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Rolando Uy also issued an order on Thursday for class suspension in the city's public schools. "Suspension of classes for private pre-school to high school levels and higher education institutions shall be left to the sound wisdom and discretion of their respective principals, administrators or school heads," Uy said in his order.

Both the Provincial Health Office and the City Health Office issued advisories to keep the public hydrated and avoid excessive exposure during the day, as it may lead to heat stroke and other heat-induced illnesses. Local health agencies encouraged residents with compromised health conditions to seek medical assistance and to keep emergency hotline numbers on hand.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration forecast here on Thursday a heat index of 41 degrees Celsius, which can reach as high as 43 degrees. According to PAGASA's metrics, such temperatures fall under "Danger Classification."