By Ellalyn De Vera-Ruiz

The heat index in Dagupan City, Pangasinan has reached a “dangerous” level anew at 51.7 degrees Celsius around 2 p.m. on Tuesday.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) defines “heat index” as the “apparent” temperature or what human perceive or feel as the temperature affects their body.

It is usually higher by at least two to three degrees Celsius from the actual air temperature.

Dagupan City’s air temperature reading on Tuesday reached 36.7 degrees Celsius

Its latest heat index surpassed the 48.2 degrees Celsius index last April 4.

With heat indices between 32 to 41 degrees Celsius, PAGASA advised residents to observe “extreme caution” as “heat cramps and heat exhaustion are possible” and “continuing activity could result to heat stroke.”

Meanwhile, with heat indices between 41 and 54 degrees Celsius, PAGASA said there is impending “danger” as “heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely” and “heat stroke is probable with continued activity.”

If heat index is over 54 degrees Celsius, PAGASA said there is “extreme danger” as “heat stroke is imminent.”

This Wednesday, PAGASA expects the easterly winds—the warm and humid air coming from the east—to prevail over most parts of the country.